Campbell: If we get big partnerships, we can take the lead

Caribbean opener John Campbell believes the West Indies can seize the initiative against Tigers in the first Test if their remaining batters build substantial partnerships after the visitors lost four wickets on the second day in Mirpur.

The left-hander struck a positive 54 off 78 balls to help the West Indies reach 134-4 at stumps on Thursday, trailing Bangladesh by 138 runs. Despite losing Campbell and three other wickets, the visitors remained hopeful of turning the match around on the third day.

“We have more than capable enough batsmen left,” Campbell said after the day’s play. “If we can get a big partnership here, and then a few 50-run partnerships, we should be in the lead.”

The 33-year-old’s innings was built on selective aggression. With the pitch offering inconsistent bounce, he said he focused on identifying scoring opportunities rather than allowing the conditions to dictate his approach.

“It was just me trying to pick my balls as much as possible, be as selective as possible,” he said. “I know that the pitch was a little bit inconsistent in terms of bounce, so I just tried to stay as positive as possible.”

Campbell felt the rain interruption had helped Bangladesh regain their rhythm, with the floodlights having a greater effect after play resumed.

“We had momentum going before the rain break as well, and with the break, I think that allowed them to regroup,” he said.

The West Indies ended the day with Tagenarine Chanderpaul unbeaten on 43 and Justin Greaves on 15, their unbroken 37-run stand offering some stability after Taijul Islam’s two-wicket burst.

Campbell also praised left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican, who claimed 5-53 to bowl Bangladesh out for 272, and debutant Joshua Bishop for his disciplined effort.