West Indies vs England: Zak Crawley scores fine century to put tourists on top going into final day | Cricket News

England close on 217-1, a lead of 153, after day four of the first Test against West Indies; Zak Crawley hits his second Test ton in an unbroken second-wicket partnership with Joe Root (84no); West Indies earlier bowled out for 375, a lead of 64 on first innings

Zak Crawley ended day four 117 not out

Zak Crawley scored his second Test century as England dominated day four of the first Test against West Indies.

The England opener (117no) put on an unbroken 193 with captain Joe Root (84no) for the second wicket as the tourists gave themselves the opportunity to push for victory on day five, although the docile nature of the Antigua pitch means a draw remains by far the most likely outcome.

After West Indies were bowled out for 375 in the first over of the day, England lost Alex Lees early but closed on 217-1, a lead of 153, with Crawley and Root first wiping out the 64-run first-innings deficit before pressing on to put the tourists in a strong position by the close.

They would have hoped to be further ahead, but rain brought play to a premature close and Root must now contemplate how long to bat on for on day five.

That decision is likely to be influenced by how well the pitch holds up as well as the fitness of fast bowler Mark Wood, who will continue to receive treatment after sustaining an elbow injury on day three with England retaining hope that he will be fit to bowl in the final innings of the match.

More to follow…