Young West Indies let it slip

England Honours were even on Day 1 of the first Test between West Indies Under-19 and their England counterparts. Having won the toss and put the visitors in to bat at Grace Road, the hosts will possibly even feel they had the better of the day.

At one stage Devon Smith and captain Brenton Parchment looked invincible as Windies recaptured the form that saw them win the One- Day series 2-1. Smith (54) and Parchment (62) looked set to remain unbeaten and give the away side an important psychological advantage. As it was Windies suffered something of a slump and ended the day on 188 for five after 52 overs.

With the score on 107, Smith the Man-Of-The-Series in the One-Day Internationals was caught by Andrew McGarry off the bowling of James Tredwell. Smith's 67-minute knock contained 11 boundaries as he confirmed his class once again.

Parchment, who struggled in the One-Dayers, at last came good with a classy innings of 62. His return to form was no less brutal than that of opening partner Smith's. Parchment hit ten fours and one huge six to vindicate the faith shown in him by the team's management.

After the captain's departure, West Indies lost their way. Instead of building on their highly promising opening stand, the Windies let a grateful England back into the game.

Patrick Browne's wicket was next to fall as England scented a chance to get back into contention. Browne was dismissed for a quickfire and entertaining 25. There were four boundaries in his 60-ball innings but just when the team needed him to carry on the previous good work, England bowler Gary Muchall made a mess of Browne's stumps and left the score on 151 for three.

Tonito Willett (12) and Vishna Arjune (13) lasted for 37 and 11 minutes respectively.