Category: 6. Sports

  • Clash of past winner and WTCS leader awaits in Tiszy

    Clash of past winner and WTCS leader awaits in Tiszy

    The margins could not have been finer when Tilda Månsson (SWE) emerged victorious in a photo finish against Noelia Juan (ESP) at the 2023 Tiszaujvaros World Cup. Entering this year’s race, though, the former World Junior champion may have to summon something even more dramatic if she is to prevail once again as she faces up against the current WTCS Series leader, Lisa Tertsch (GER).

    With a smaller women’s field present this year, there will only be two semi-finals on Saturday and energy conservation ahead of Sunday’s finale will be key. Such has been Tertsch’s form of late, she enters as the clear favourite. Nevertheless, every ounce of energy saved ahead of Sunday’s final – which will be live on TriathlonLive from 15:45 (CEST) – could prove the difference for Månsson or someone else upsetting the odds.


    Tertsch meets Månsson in semi-final 1

    With a win at WTCS Abu Dhabi and a medal at WTCS Yokohama, Tertsch has reiterated her status as one of the best triathletes in the world. It is therefore little surprise that she will wear number 1. In years gone by, the World Cup circuit has proven a happy hunting ground for the German athlete, with her win at the 2023 Tangier World Cup standing out. Equally, with WTCS Hamburg coming a week after Tiszy, there may be a chance that Tertsch will not be fully rested or dialled in for this weekend’s double header, potentially opening the door for others.

    Already this year, Månsson has logged her best ever WTCS finishes yet. As a result, the triple World Cup winner will be confident of starring in Tiszy again. She wears number 3 in the first semi-final, handing her the option to shadow Tertsch. Separating the pair on the start list is Ilaria Zane (ITA); the experienced Italian medalled at the Saidia World Cup this past weekend. Zane’s teammate Costanza Arpinelli, another recent World Cup medallist (from Samarkand), then wears number 4.

    World Cup medallists Lea Coninx (FRA) and Jessica Fullagar (GBR), who coincidentally both medalled in Samarkand (in 2024 and 2023, respectively), add to the firepower of the first heat. Likewise, talents like Maria López Faraudo (MEX), the 2nd place finisher at the Americas Championships, and Manami Hayashi (JPN), who has been dominant on the Asian circuit and tackles a first World Cup of year after placing 25th on her WTCS debut in Yokohama, could be names to watch when the final comes around. Finally, keep an eye on Carina Reicht (AUT). She is in great form following back-to-back Europe Cup wins and broke the Austrian 5km record earlier this year.  


    Vermeylen the proven quantity in semi-final 2

    Jolien Vermeylen (BEL), a World Cup winner and the 3rd place finisher in Tiszaujvaros in 2023, enters as the number 1 seed in the second semi-final. Over the past few years, Vermeylen has developed to the point that her making the final (mishap aside) should be a formality. Her task will be to avoid burning any unnecessary energy in the semi-final before taking on the likes of Tertsch and Månsson.

    Coming out on top in the second heat is not a given, though. One dark horse to watch will be Tilly Anema (GBR). The Brit looked set to win this year’s Samarkand World Cup before unfortunately crashing on the bike. She rallied to take 5th place in a demonstration of her mental fortitude, and her 2025 form definitely marks her out as dangerous. Another Brit, Sophie Alden, will start too in semi-final 2 as she looks to build back to her World Cup medal-winning form following injury.

    Momentum is also on the side of both Sara Guerrero Manso (ESP), the bronze medallist at May’s Chengdu World Cup, and Italy’s Beatrice Mallozzi, the recent 4th place finisher at the Huatulco World Cup. With 2023 World U23 champion Selina Klamt (GER) and World U23 Winter Triathlon champion Zuzana Michalickova (SVK) starting the second semi-final, the race to qualify for Sunday could get spicy.

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  • India vs England 2nd Test: ‘Classy, Calm, Fearless’ – Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh lead cricket fraternity’s praise for Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal | Cricket News

    India vs England 2nd Test: ‘Classy, Calm, Fearless’ – Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh lead cricket fraternity’s praise for Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal | Cricket News

    Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal

    India’s rising batting stars Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal lit up Edgbaston on Day 1 of the second Test against England – and their efforts drew a flood of praise from some of cricket’s biggest names, led by Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh and Irfan Pathan.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The duo’s commanding display helped India recover from early jolts to finish 310/5 at stumps, with Gill remaining unbeaten on 114 and Jaiswal striking a fluent 87 off 107 balls.

    EXCLUSIVE | David Gower on Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah and India’s England tour

    Tendulkar took to X to laud the young guns, highlighting their contrasting yet complementary styles.“@ybj_19 set the tone from ball one. He was positive, fearless and smartly aggressive. @ShubmanGill was cool as ever, calm under pressure, solid in defence and in total control. Classy knocks from both. Well played, boys!” the batting legend wrote.

    Poll

    Who impressed you the most in India’s second Test against England?

    Gill, who now has back-to-back hundreds as India’s new Test captain, also earned plaudits from Mohammad Kaif, who hailed his emergence at the coveted No. 4 spot.“Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli and now Shubman Gill… India is always blessed to have a solid world-class batsman at No. 4. May this continue forever,” Kaif posted.Yuvraj Singh, who has long mentored Gill, was equally effusive.“When responsibility calls, some rise and some soar! @ShubmanGill just became one of the rare few to score consecutive hundreds as Test captain! A calm head, a bold bat and a hunger to lead by example,” he wrote.Former opener Wasim Jaffer praised Gill’s poise under pressure. “Being India’s number 4 and Test captain comes with a different pressure altogether. Really good to see it has not affected his batting one bit, in fact it’s elevated it,” Jaffer wrote.All-rounder Irfan Pathan, meanwhile, underlined the duo’s role in shaping India’s Test future.“I have no doubt in my mind two batters from this young Indian team will take test team forward. YASHASVI JAISWAL & SHUBMAN GILL,” he posted.Despite minor setbacks – KL Rahul and debutant Nitish Reddy falling cheaply – India’s commanding partnership between Gill and Ravindra Jadeja (41*) ensured the team closed the day on top, with the skipper once again leading from the front.


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  • Go Behind the Fern with the All Blacks on NZR+ » allblacks.com

    Go Behind the Fern with the All Blacks on NZR+ » allblacks.com

    Before the first whistle blows on a massive 2025 season, take a step inside the world of the All Blacks and meet the people behind the jersey.

    Following the release of Behind the Fern: Black Ferns in May, Behind the Fern – All Blacks is a brand-new documentary series offering unprecedented access to one of the most iconic teams in world sport.

    Streaming from Thursday, July 3 at 6pm on NZR+ and YouTube

    Across the series, you’ll go beyond the game to get to know your favourite players, not just as athletes, but as people. From first caps to personal challenges, team culture to pre-game rituals, this is a revealing look at what it truly means to be part of the All Blacks.

    In Episode 1, fans are introduced to two of the newest faces in camp, Hurricanes loose forward Du’Plessis Kirifi and Dutch-born Highlanders lock Fabian Holland. From very different backgrounds, both players have taken unique paths to earn their place in the black jersey. You’ll hear their stories in their own words, the setbacks, the sacrifices, and the moments that made it all worth it. 

    Also featured in the premiere is the return of Jordie Barrett, who joins the squad following his sabbatical with Irish club Leinster. In conversation, he shares his excitement for the 2025 season and his eagerness to get back in the black jersey.  

    From inside the team hotel to on-field preparation, Episode 1 captures the energy and intensity of a group coming together ahead of a high-stakes opening series against France. You’ll see how leadership is lived daily, how new players are brought into the fold, and how the legacy of the black jersey is passed on. 

    Whether you’ve followed the All Blacks for decades or you’re just getting started, Behind the Fern offers something fresh: real stories, raw moments, and a deep sense of what it means to walk together, as teammates, as brothers, and as All Blacks. 

    Episode 1 premieres Thursday, July 3 at 6pm on NZR+ and YouTube. 
    Tune in, and take your place Behind the Fern. 


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  • Steve Smith back for second West Indies Test after dislocated finger – France 24

    1. Steve Smith back for second West Indies Test after dislocated finger  France 24
    2. Smith returns as both sides look for batting lift in Grenada  ESPNcricinfo
    3. Australia reveal fielding plan for returning Smith  The Express Tribune
    4. Smith return confirmed as Aussies reveal XI for Grenada Test  ICC
    5. Star batter returns as Australia names playing XI for second West Indies Test  A Sports

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  • Defender to drive Wallabies during Lions Tour

    Defender to drive Wallabies during Lions Tour

    Rugby Australia are proud to have Defender driving the Wallabies as an official partner for the Qatar Airways British & Irish Lions Tour —uniting two icons of strength, resilience, and heritage.

    A long-term partnership that continues to celebrate rugby’s rich legacy while inspiring the next generation of players and fans across the globe.

    Rugby and Defender share a deep connection—cast from the same mould, built for endurance, and driven by a spirit of adventure. Just as rugby demands strength and unwavering determination, Defender embodies these qualities in every journey it takes.

    This announcement builds on Defender’s longstanding commitment to the sport, from being a Worldwide Partner of Rugby World Cup 2023 in France to serving as Principal Partner of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 and a long-term supporter of the Wallabies and Australian Rugby.

    Together, Defender and rugby embrace the impossible—and drive forward with purpose.

    Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh said: “Like the Wallabies, Defender are a brand who pride themselves on being the very best in their field, so we’re thrilled to have them on board as an official partner of the Lions Series.

    “They’re a long-term supporter of Rugby across the globe and here in Australia and we’re looking forward to continuing our relationship with them moving forward.”

    Managing Director of JLR Australia, Penny Ferguson said: “Defender is proud to play an integral role in the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia.”

    “Our brand shares a deep connection with the spirit of rugby – built on inner strength, team unity, and relentless determination. In 2025, with the Lions tour and the Women’s Rugby World Cup, we’re proud to support the game across multiple dimensions, both in Australia and globally. With the Home Men’s Rugby World Cup on the horizon in 2027, our commitment to the sport continues to grow.”

    This enthusiasm was echoed by Defender’s Global Managing Director, Mark Cameron.

    The Qatar Airways British & Irish Lions Tour of Australia 2025

    Western Force v British & Irish Lions at 5:45pm AWST on Saturday 28 June at Optus Stadium, Perth

    Queensland Reds v British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Wednesday 2 July at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

    New South Wales Waratahs v British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Saturday 5 July at Allianz Stadium, Sydney

    ACT Brumbies v British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Wednesday 9 July at GIO Stadium, Canberra

    AUNZ Invitational XV v British & Irish Lions at 7:15pm ACST on Saturday 12 July at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide

    Wallabies v British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Saturday July 19 at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

    First Nations & Pasifika XV v British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Tuesday 22 July at Marvel Stadium, Melbourne

    Wallabies v British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Saturday July 26 at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne

    Wallabies v British & Irish Lions at 7:45pm AEST on Saturday August 2 at Accor Stadium, Sydney


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  • Australia’s Smith return confirmed for second Test v Windies

    Australia’s Smith return confirmed for second Test v Windies



    Cricket


    Steve Smith will return for the second test against West Indies in Grenada, replacing Josh Inglis.





    GRENADA (Reuters) – Australia batsman Steve Smith will return for the second test against West Indies in Grenada, replacing Josh Inglis, captain Pat Cummins confirmed on Wednesday.

    Cummins said Smith had recovered sufficiently from a dislocated finger to resume his position at number four for the match starting on Thursday.

    Inglis misses out after scoring five and 12 in the only change following Australia’s 159-run win in the Barbados series-opener.

    Smith dislocated his right little finger in last month’s World Test Championship final and will be required to wear a splint for five weeks, Cricket Australia said.

    However, the veteran came through a 30-minute batting session unscathed along with some slips catching drills.

    “He’s ready to go, the finger held up well,” Cummins told reporters.

    “He was really happy, particularly batting.”

    Australia XI:

    Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

     

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  • Madrid oust Juve, BVB reach CWC quarters

    Madrid oust Juve, BVB reach CWC quarters


    ATLANTA:

    Spanish giants Real Madrid beat Juventus 1-0 on Tuesday to set up a Club World Cup quarter-final clash against Borussia Dortmund, who edged Mexican side Monterrey.

    Serhou Guirassy struck twice for the German outfit as they scraped past Sergio Ramos’s side 2-1 in a tight last-16 clash in Atlanta and denied the former Real Madrid skipper a match-up against his former team.

    Youngster Gonzalo Garcia headed home his third goal of the tournament to help Madrid edge Italian side Juventus at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami earlier.

    It was an impressive display from Xabi Alonso’s Madrid side, unbeaten under the new coach, and they were further boosted by Kylian Mbappe’s return from illness as a substitute.

    “We had a lot of chances in the second half, but their goalkeeper was really good,” said Madrid shot-stopper Thibaut Courtois.

    The first half was a finely-balanced contest with Igor Tudor’s Juventus starting brightly before Real ended it on top.

    Los Blancos kept turning the screw and found their goal when Trent Alexander-Arnold crossed for Gonzalo to head home after 54 minutes.

    Alonso decided to introduce Mbappe to the delight of the 62,149 crowd but the striker did not find any clear openings as Juve pushed for an equaliser.

    Madrid’s coach was pleased with his team’s performance, including that of Gonzalo -— who he had compared to former Real great Raul — but also suggested that Mbappe might be ready for a bigger contribution in the next game.

    “We will keep watching him… I think he will be much better for the quarters,” Alonso said.

    Alonso added that he was satisfied to see Real produce the necessary grit to grind out the result in the second half.

    “We had to be patient, we had to mature into the game,” said the coach.

    “With the players and myself, you know you have to grit your teeth and do what you have to do. And in the end, we had to hold on a bit, and I’m happy about that too.”

    Juve boss Tudor said his team became exhausted as the game developed.

    “In the end there were 10 of them asking to be substituted. Obviously you can’t do that but there was an incredible tiredness,” he said, offering his reasons.

    “There is the tension of the game which burns energy but then there is the heat and humidity,” explained Tudor, also noting they were at the end of a long season.

    Dortmund deny Ramos

    In Atlanta, Guirassy’s brace was enough to help Dortmund past Monterrey in a hard-fought clash, setting them up to play a Madrid side who beat them in the 2024 Champions League final.

    “Real has a great team, they have many good individual players,” Dortmund coach Niko Kovac told reporters.

    “If we put everything on the pitch, (giving) the same performance as we saw today, I think that we will have a good chance.”

    Guirassy netted a first-half double but German Berterame pulled one back for the Mexican side who came close to an equaliser when a late Ramos header span just wide.

    “I think I could have scored at least three goals but I am happy to have helped the team win,” Guirassy told broadcaster DAZN.

    After grinding through several games in the blazing afternoon sun during the group stage, Dortmund were grateful to be at the air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz Stadium and played at a faster pace in Atlanta.

    Karim Adeyemi set up both of Guirassy’s goals as the Guinea international reached 37 for the season across all competitions.

    A booking for Jobe Bellingham means he will be suspended for the clash against his brother Jude’s Real Madrid side.

    However Dortmund almost missed out entirely as Monterrey hit back in the second half, but after Berterame headed home to reduce the gap, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made several good saves to keep them at bay.

    Ramos, sent up front for the final stages, put a header agonisingly wide in stoppage time as he tried to deliver on his penchant for late, decisive moments, like in Madrid’s 2014 Champions League final triumph.

    “The crowd and our fans and the people who understand about football, they saw that the team gave everything,” Ramos told DAZN, proud of his side’s efforts.

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  • PSL management, stakeholders meet

    PSL management, stakeholders meet


    LAHORE:

    The management of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) headed by Chief Executive Officer, Salman Naseer held workshops with all stakeholders of HBL PSL including representatives of franchises, title sponsor, media rights partners and commercial partners on Wednesday at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.

    During the meeting, the PSL management presented data and analytics reflecting the league’s growth over the past 10 years. A statistical comparison between the ninth and tenth editions of the league was also shared.

    The 10th edition of the HBL PSL also known as HBL PSL X was played from 11 April to 25 May with four cities — Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi hosting a total of 34 matches. The final of the marquee event was played before a packed Gaddafi Stadium between Lahore Qalandars and Quetta Gladiators, with the former winning the tournament for the third time in past four years.

    PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi: “The Pakistan Super league has not only grown into a premier cricketing brand but has also served as a symbol of resilience, hope and unity during challenging times.

    “From navigating difficult circumstances to bringing international stars to our home grounds, the PSL has remained steadfast in delivering quality cricket and unforgettable moments for millions of fans across the globe. This journey, filled with passion, drama and thrilling performances, truly belongs to our people.

    “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our franchise owners, HBL — our title sponsor and long-term partner, players, broadcasters, commercial partners, security agencies and of course, our passionate fans. Without their unwavering support and belief, this success would not have been possible.

    “As we look to the future, the PCB remains committed to strengthening and evolving the league further. We envision an even more competitive, inclusive and globally engaging tournament that continues to bring joy to cricket fans and honour to Pakistan.”

    HBL PSL Chief Executive Officer Salman Naseer: “The Pakistan Super League has come a long way since its inception. Marking a decade of cricketing excellence, the 10th edition of the HBL PSL was more than just a milestone – it was a celebration of passion, resilience and unity. HBL PSL X shattered numerous records, from viewership to fan engagement, reaffirming the league’s place as a powerhouse in the world of sports.

    “The substantial growth in digital engagement, particularly the 647 per cent surge in live streaming, is a testament to the league’s increasing popularity among cricket fans.

    “We are proud to present these figures to our long-standing partners, whose continued support has been instrumental in shaping the PSL into one of the most celebrated T20 leagues worldwide. These numbers reflect the trust of our fans and the relentless efforts of everyone involved in the league’s success.

    “The diverse and widespread viewership, both in urban and rural areas, shows that the PSL has become a household name across the country. With 3.4 billion live streaming views and a strong digital following of 22 million, the league continues to set new benchmarks in Pakistan’s sporting landscape.

    “PSL is not just a tournament, it’s a movement that unites fans across the globe. As we look ahead towards the next decade, we cannot wait to unravel new stories and thrilling experiences for the fans. Exciting times ahead!”

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  • Pak, India likely to clash on Sept 7

    Pak, India likely to clash on Sept 7

    The Asia Cup 2025 is likely to be staged in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with the tournament expected to begin around September four or five and conclude on September 21, Indian media reported on Wednesday.

    According to a report, the much-anticipated clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India is also likely to take place on September 7 in Dubai.

    The 17th edition of the marquee event will be played in the T20 format and there is a strong possibility of the arch rivals facing off at least twice, once in the group stage and potentially again in the super four round.

    The tournament will feature six teams including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and the UAE.

    It will follow the traditional group stage followed by a super four format, similar to previous editions.

    An official announcement regarding the final schedule is expected in the second week of July. Meanwhile, promotional activities have already begun, with tournament teasers airing on Indian television networks and circulating widely on social media platforms.

    Earlier, there were speculations that India might withdraw from the tournament due to political tensions. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) dismissed those claims, confirming that no such decision has been made.

    Indian media reports further stated that both India and Pakistan will continue to play against each other in ICC and Asia Cup tournaments, and there is no official directive from either cricket board to avoid such contests.

    It is pertinent to mention that India are the defending champions, having won the previous edition played in the ODI format with a dominant 10-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the final.

    Latif backs Babar for T20Is

    Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has endorsed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to move on from star cricketers Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi in the T20I format.

    In a recent interview on a local YouTube platform, Latif expressed his support for allowing senior players more freedom to pursue opportunities abroad.

    “They’re playing in the Big Bash and will earn decent money, and I don’t think they’d want to return either. That’s just my opinion. The PCB should give them some liberty to explore other leagues. Otherwise, it’s fine,” Latif stated.

    The former wicketkeeper also stressed the importance of investing in new talent.

    “The new players should be given a chance — it’s a great opportunity, especially with the Asia Cup and other upcoming events. It’s all good; the game will keep progressing,” he added.

    It is pertinent to mention that Pakistan pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi was selected as the first overall pick in the Big Bash League (BBL) Season 15 Draft, held on June 19, with Brisbane Heat securing the services of the left-arm fast bowler.

    The highly anticipated BBL player draft was held earlier today, with six out of the eight franchises showing interest in signing national team players.

    Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan was selected as the third platinum pick, while England’s Luke Wood was picked second.

    The 25-year-old Shaheen was the first overall pick in the draft, selected under the platinum category by Brisbane Heat.

    Rizwan was signed by Melbourne Renegades, marking his BBL debut and adding to his experience in foreign leagues, including the BPL.

    Star batter Babar Azam was pre-signed by the Sydney Sixers ahead of the official draft and was set to make his BBL debut. The franchise had used its pre-signing option to secure the services of the former Pakistan captain.

    For the unversed, Shaheen, Rizwan and Babar last featured in a T20I for Pakistan back in 2024 against South Africa.

    They have been out of the shorter format since then and are not part of the plans for the upcoming tours of Bangladesh and the West Indies, or the likely tri-nation series involving UAE and Afghanistan.

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  • Chase confident Windies can rebound in Grenada Test 

    Chase confident Windies can rebound in Grenada Test 

    With history and heart on their side, West Indies captain Roston Chase is backing his side to bounce back from a disappointing opening Test defeat and deliver a more complete performance in the second Test of their three-match series against world number one Australia in Grenada.

    The contest, which gets underway on Thursday at the Grenada National Stadium, holds extra significance—not only as a potential series leveller, but as the stage for veteran opener Kraigg Brathwaite’s 100th Test appearance. The milestone adds emotional weight to a match where the West Indies will be seeking redemption and renewed confidence.

    Despite a promising start in Barbados, the Caribbean side faltered badly on day three, with dropped catches and lapses in concentration proving costly. Chase did not shy away from admitting his side’s shortcomings.

    “I thought we fell down on the third morning. We had our plans set, and we got an opportunity that we were looking for, but we blew it, and I thought after that the guys went into the shadows mentally. And then we strayed away from the plans that we had set, and we offered up too many runs that were obviously too much for us to get,” Chase said in a pre-game press conference.

    The fielding, too, came under scrutiny, as several key chances went begging, including a crucial dropped catch off Travis Head, who went on to anchor Australia’s second-innings push.

    “As they say, catches win matches, and we put down quite a few. Even though we restricted them to 180 in the first innings, that Travis Head chance was very crucial. He was obviously the main batter on their side with Steve Smith out, and he made us pay for it. Then [Beau] Webster and [Alex] Carey just fed off that momentum. After that, the spirit in the team dropped, and we never recovered,” Chase admitted.

    Still, the West Indies skipper remains undeterred. With Brathwaite poised to etch his name among Caribbean cricket greats, Chase believes the team can channel that inspiration into a renewed effort.

    “I think it’s an amazing feat for Kraigg. Obviously coming from Barbados, I think he’s a modern-day legend, and he’s someone I look up to. One thing that he did state, probably early in his career or before starting his career, was that he wanted to play 100 Tests. So I think that that’s an amazing achievement that someone can set the goal from so early and achieve it after so many years,” Chase noted.

    With Grenada’s National Stadium having hosted just four Tests since 2009, its telling trend somewhat favours the Windies, as the team batting second has won the last three matches at the venue. Brathwaite himself has previously scored a century at the venue, and with the surface expected to offer more even bounce than the pitch in Bridgetown, Chase believes conditions could be just right.

    “This is my first match playing in a Test match in Grenada, so I’m looking forward to it. The pitch looks like a good one. It looks evenly grassed, and it looks better than Barbados, even though I am Barbadian. But yeah, I’m looking for it,” Chase said.

    That said, Chase also acknowledged the bigger picture, that the team, though still developing, has shown flashes of brilliance that hint at their potential to challenge the world’s best.

    “Cricket is played on the day. You could have a bad match and still come back the next day and shine. We’ve had some good moments in this series. Now it’s about putting all the pieces together,” he ended.

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