Marlon Samuels got the West Indies off to a good start on day 1 of their first Test in South Africa. The Windies' first day score of 281/4 was built around Samuels' 94, but it was captain Chris Gayle's blazing 66 off 49 deliveries that got the Windies off to a flier. Gayle, who was doubtful to play in this match due to his hamstring injury, and Daren Ganga(33) put on 98 for the first wicket against the likes of Makhaya Ntini, the much-hyped Dale Steyn and Andre Nel. Lending strong support to Samuels were Shiv Chanderpaul(43n.o.) and Runako Morton (33).
The only thing that disappointed on this day from a Windies perspective was the failure of Samuels to go to make a big ton as he sliced a wide delivery near the close of play from Dale Steyn and Jacques Kallis took a blinder at second slip. With only 1 century in his previous 24 Tests, Samuels may not get another chance for a century for a while.
So while not the miracle that Tony Cozier said was needed, the first day definitely showed that the West Indies can be competitive in the series. However, with only Ramdin, Darren Sammy and the bowlers to come, overnight batsmen Bravo (0 n.o) and Chanderpaul will have to stick around to ensure that the Windies will compete in this match.
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