KINGSTOWN, St Vincent (CMC):

A memorable debut for seven West Indies players was spoiled when rain prompted an early close on the first day of the opening Test against Bangladesh yesterday.

Only 18.5 overs were possible before heavy afternoon showers accompanied by thunder and lightning brought play to a close half-hour earlier than scheduled, with Bangladesh 42 without loss in their first innings after they chose to bat in the match at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex.

Boycott of the series

With so little action, events off the field took centre stage, as West Indies Cricket Board President Julian Hunte flew into the island to hand seven players their first Test caps.

This followed the boycott of the series by the 13 players named to form the squad on Monday in protest over playing without contracts for five series, outstanding payments, and other issues.

Only four members of the final 11 have previously played in a Test. Fast bowler Tino Best has appeared in 12 Tests, vice-captain Darren Sammy has made five Test appearances, experienced Barbadian left-hander Floyd Reifer, who is leading the side, has played four Tests, and all-rounder Dave Bernard Jr played one Test against Australia six years ago.

Test newcomers

The seven Test newcomers are batsmen Dale Richards, Omar Phillips, and Travis Dowlin, wicketkeeper/batsman Chadwick Walton, fast bowler Kemar Roach, along with spinners Nikita Miller and Ryan Austin.

When play started three hours later than scheduled, Best and Roach showed no nerves, and put Bangladesh openers Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes under early pressure.

But when they were removed from the attack, the two Bangladesh openers grew in confidence, and were just beginning to get into the thick of things when rain prompted an early tea with the visitors on 36 without loss.

When the players returned, only 4.5 overs were possible before the day's heaviest shower ended play completely.