Tour match heads for intriguing finish

Despite some aggressive batting, West Indies A could not grasp the initiative in their tour match with Nottinghamshire at Trent Bridge. After initially rattling along at six runs per over against an inexperienced Nottinghamshire attack, the West Indians lost wickets in search of quick runs before skipper Daren Ganga declared 65 runs behind. The home side then set about the tourists' bowling, hitting 38 in as many minutes to lead by 102 going into the final day. The captains are clearly pushing for a result, which should mean some entertaining cricket tomorrow.

Ryan Hinds was the West Indies' star with the bat, crashing 73 from 75 balls. The 21-year-old Bajan struck nine fours and two explosive sixes before falling to Gareth Clough. Tom Savill earned an lbw decision to trap Donovan Pagon (1) early, as the West Indians replied to Nottinghamshire's first innings 287. Thoughts of another collapse were dispelled by Devon Smith, who hit seven boundaries in a 21-ball knock which bought 31 powerful runs. Smith has had a wretched tour, and such positive batting may prove a turning point.

Smith threw his wicket away though, and Ganga continued a poor run, edging Savill to keeper Wayne Noon for just 10. Hinds joined Runako Morton, whose blistering 33 came at better than a run a ball. Though he claimed two early wickets, Savill was the most expensive of the bowlers, thrashed for eight runs an over. Nadeem Malik's line also strayed, as West Indies took advantage.

Malik, Savill, Clough and Paul McMahon each claimed a brace of wickets. Though they were often wayward, it is encouraging to see Nottinghamshire's future stars given a chance so early. No less than six of the side are still in their teens.

Earlier, Vikram Atri fell agonisingly short of a debut century. The 19-year-old student batted more fluently this morning, hitting 16 boundaries in a 175-ball innings which was terminated on 98 by the spin of Hinds.

Jermaine Lawson (4-91) was the pick of the bowlers, well supported by Hinds (3-54) and Tino Best (2-69) who removed Samit Patel, who made a pleasant 35 on debut. The third debutant in the side, Will Smith, also looked good. He remained unbeaten on 38 as the home side lost wickets in a hurry before declaring after Savill and McMahon had both been dismissed first ball.