NORTH SOUND, Antigua (CMC) – All-rounder Andre Russell and compatriot Danza Hyatt said they felt a sense of duty, helping West Indies-A recover from a shaky start in the first ‘Test’ against Bangladesh-A yesterday.
Russell led the way with 128 and Hyatt made 92 to lift West Indies-A to 352 for eight in their first innings on the opening day of the match at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground.
“We needed big partnerships and what we did was try to be positive and stay confident,” said Russell.
“I back myself because I know I have the strength to get the ball away so when they (Bangladeshi bowlers) gave me the opportunities, I made use of them.”
West Indies wobbled on 11 for two early before Hyatt featured in a 115-run stand for the third wicket with another compatriot Nkrumah Bonner.
Three quick wickets after lunch left Windies-A groggy again on 131 for five before Russell and Hyatt added 59 for the sixth wicket.
“We had a bad start and Bonner and I had to get a partnership for the team then me and Russell had to put together another partnership later on until I got run-out,” Hyatt said.
“When your team is in trouble you have to dig deep, rotate the strike and consolidate, that’s what your job as a batsman really is.”
Russell then proceeded to put on 155 for the seventh wicket with fellow all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite, who scored 62.
“It was a pretty decent pitch to bat on so as long as you get in you just have to bat long, be patient and wait on the balls which allow you to play your shots and that’s what I did,” said Russell.
The all-rounder played a reverse sweep to reach his hundred and said he did not think it was a high-risk shot.
“I looked at the field they had set and they had no fielder at point and based on the area they were bowling to me, I backed myself and was being positive so it was like a normal shot to me,” he said.
Hyatt was not so fortunate. He was run-out with the milestone within reach, but he was philosophical about it all.
“It was a mix-up with Russell that cost me my wicket, but it is part of the game and I have to put that behind me and get a good score in the second innings and in the next match,” he said.
“I think I’m in good nick, so I have to capitalise and I need to continue to get the big scores.”