‘It was brutal’: Kavem Hodge deals with ferocious bowling spell from Wood

Nottingham, 20 July 2024-

West Indies staged a remarkable reply after a century from Kavem Hodge and a crucial 175-run partnership with Alick Athanaze in the second Test against England. This effort saw West Indies post a strong reply of 351 for 5 at the end of Day 2 to England’s imposing first innings total of 416.

Responding to the challenge from their captain Kraigg Brathwaite who called for an improved batting performance, Hodge and Athanaze met with grit and determination. Reflecting on their partnership at the end of the day, Hodge highlighted their long-standing synergy developed while playing for the same home franchise.

“We always bat well together, we play for the same franchise at home, we’ve had a lot of big partnerships. He’s more aggressive than me, I’m more of an accumulator so I tend to go under the radar and go about my business quietly. It’s always good to spend time with him at the wicket,” Hodge said after the end of Day 2 play.

Playing only his fourth Test match, Hodge was delighted to reach his maiden Test hundred. “It’s a dream come true, playing the game as a youngster, that’s something you want to do, especially at the highest level – in England against England. I’m very happy and satisfied with that, especially with the team’s position, it’s always good to help the team’s cause,” he shared, beaming with pride.

The highlight of Hodge’s innings was his fierce battle against England paceman Mark Wood, who relentlessly delivered high-speed bouncers. At one point, a bouncer hit Athanaze on the back of the helmet, causing concern for Hodge. “I started. I thought I would get hit before him, but it didn’t happen that way. But congratulations to him for coming back well and being able to keep his place and push on.”

Reflecting on the intensity of the day, Hodge recounted a humorous exchange with Wood during his spell. “It was brutal. It’s not every day you go up against someone who bowls over 90mph every ball. It was a point, I made a joke to him, I said, “Hey, I’ve got a wife and kids at home.” But I think that made the century much more satisfying. Test cricket is brutal, it’s challenging, it’s mentally draining. To experience that, going up against guys like Mark Wood, it was tough, but it was satisfying.” (Agency)