NORTH SOUND, Antigua (CMC) – An enterprising, unbroken half-century stand between captain Denesh Ramdin and Jason Holder salvaged some hope for West Indies of saving the opening Test against England here Friday.

At tea on the final day at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, West Indies were 268 for six, with the 170 runs still required for victory now a non-factor.

West Indies need to survive 31 overs in the final session.

Both Ramdin and Holder were both unbeaten on 48 and were involved in a critical seventh wicket stand of 79 which has so far frustrated England’s quest for a 1-0 series lead.

Ramdin has so far faced 97 deliveries and struck eight fours while Holder’s knock has been a breezy one, consuming just 62 balls and including seven fours.

Both batsmen have been study in defence but played freely, with Holder in particular unfurling some exquisite off-side drives.

West Indies lost just one wicket in the session when first innings century-maker Jermaine Blackwood, unbeaten on 19 at lunch, adding 12 before falling in ungainly fashion.

Looking to attack, he charged seamer Chris Jordan and in-edged a wild swing to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler to perish in the ninth over after the break.

Part-time off-spinner Joe Root remains the best bowler with two for 13.