Opener Abhinav, Laxman and Raina score half tons on day three

West Indies were already facing the prospect of fighting to save the third Test after India took control on the third day with a strong batting performance at Windsor Park here Friday.




India's VVS Laxman and Abhinav Mukund in full flow on Day Three of
the third Test at Windsor Park. Pics/AFP

Despite striking key blows at pivotal moments throughout the day, West Indies' depleted bowling attack could not contain India, and the visitors were well poised at 308 for six at the close - a lead of 104 on first innings.

Without the services of Ravi Rampaul who continued to suffer with a stomach bug, West Indies were short on bowling options and India's batsmen capitalised.

Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni stroked an unbeaten 65, opener Abinhav Mukund hit his maiden Test half-century in getting 65, while VVS Laxman (56) and Suresh Raina (50) got among the runs, as India batted in partnerships.