Sylhet witnessed a dominant West Indies batting display on the fourth day of the second Test against Bangladesh on Sunday, November 8, 2026. The visitors reached 345 for 3 when bad light ended play, with Kavem Hodge remaining unbeaten on 140. This performance extended West Indies’ lead to 315 runs, positioning them strongly in the contest as the match progressed at a run rate of 4.28 per over.
Hodge’s unbeaten century reflected the collective strength that has defined West Indies’ batting throughout the Bangladesh tour. The batter emphasised the camaraderie within the squad and the deliberate approach players have adopted to accumulate substantial scores. Speaking about the team’s preparation and mindset, Hodge highlighted how the group works together to build momentum and support one another.
“Although we are from different countries, but when we get together, we have a lot of conversations. We share ideas and mindset. We feed off of each other’s routines, whatever it is that we do. The belief is also there,” Hodge said as quoted by Cricinfo.
How do West Indies batters build their collective strength?
The West Indies batter credited the background staff for their role in shaping the team’s approach to Test cricket. Hodge explained the strategic shift that has driven the squad’s recent success in accumulating runs.
“We also prepare well. Kudos to the background staff, but I think it’s a mindset shift where guys buy into the concept of batting long when you get in, dig in, triple your scores, stuff like that,” Hodge said.
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What role has Hodge played in West Indies’ performance?
Hodge expressed his satisfaction at contributing to West Indies‘ position in a closely contested match. His unbeaten 140 came off 189 balls, featuring 17 fours and a six, demonstrating both patience and controlled aggression.
“And it’s always nice to contribute to the team. So it was really good to put on some runs for the team in a situation like that, where the game was evenly poised. So it was a good feeling, and hopefully we can continue it tomorrow,” Hodge said.
Kevin Wickham had scored 78 in the second innings, adding to his first-innings performance in the match. Hodge reflected on Wickham’s dismissal with regret, noting the unfortunate nature of his departure.
“He was going along really well. But I mean, the two innings that he played [in this game] is just proof of the caliber of player that he is. So I think that he has a lot more Test runs to get,” Hodge observed.
Hodge’s 140 represented his third Test century, all achieved away from home. During this innings, he crossed the 1,000 Test runs milestone. Earlier in the tour, Brandon King had scored an unbeaten 81 in West Indies’ chase during the first Test, while Amir Jangoo struck a century in the first innings at Sylhet. The West Indies batting line-up has accumulated 13 centuries across the calendar year 2026, reflecting consistent run-scoring depth throughout the order.
