Kraigg Brathwaite struck his first

half-century in 22 innings to end a poor run of form as West Indies made a

strong reply on the pivotal third day of the opening Test against England here

Friday.

At lunch, West Indies had reached 159 for three

with Shamarh Brooks unbeaten on 27 and Roston Chase on 13.

The tourists trail by 45 runs heading into

the second session at the Ageas Bowl, with the lead now firmly in their sights.

West Indies owed much of their enterprise

to Brathwaite, whose 18th Test half-century required 125 balls in slightly over

three hours at the crease and included six fours.

Resuming on 20, the Barbadian extended his

second wicket stand with Shai Hope (16) to 59 to frustrate England’s hopes of

an early breakthrough.

In fact, West Indies safely navigated the

first hour before losing Hope three deliveries after the drinks break when he

edged off-spinner Dom Bess to captain Ben Stokes at first slip.

Brathwaite then put on a further 38 for the

third wicket with Brooks before perishing with lunch in sight, lbw to seamer

Stokes about 25 minutes before the interval.

England were dismissed for 204 on

Thursday’s second day with captain Jason Holder snaring career-best figures of

six for 42.

The West Indies, now at tea, sits

comfortably at 242 for five, leading by 38 runs.