Dowlin, Edwards fashion first-innings lead

West Indies A captain Travis Dowlin led a recovery of sorts but missed out on a century on the second day of the first class match against Zimbabwe at the Grenada National Stadium on Saturday.

The hosts were in a spot of trouble, losing three quick wickets to slip from 62 for 0 to 92 for 3 when Dowling walked in. He struck a classy 84 off 178 balls, inclusive of six boundary hits. Kirk Edwards supported his captain through a critical 125-run stand that gave their side first-innings honours and took them to a position of strength. Edwards was unbeaten on 62 at stumps.

Dowlin was eventually dismissed by legspinner Graeme Cremer, caught at midwicket. Shane Dowrich was also sent back before stumps by Chris Mpofu who finished with figures of 20-10-34-3. He was largely responsible for Zimbabwe's strong showing earlier in the day, dismissing both openers within the space of one run.

Kraigg Brathwaite edged to Brendan Taylor at second slip and Justin Guillen was trapped in front for 25. Left-handed Jason Haynes reached 17 before edging Timycen Maruma to Taylor at slip. After that, the hosts took control to reach a position from which to dictate terms in the remaining days.