Darren Sammy’s belligerent cameo has put the West Indies ahead at tea on the second day of the first Test against Australia in Barbados.

Sammy slammed 41 off just 36 balls with three sixes as the Windies, despite their captain’s dismissal, reached 7-390 at the break.

Shivnarine Chanderpaul remained unbeaten on 80 while Kemar Roach (10no) provided plenty of nuisance value following Sammy’s dismissal.

The West Indies captain sparked the Test into life after coming to the crease following Carlton Baugh’s (22) needless run-out early in the afternoon session.

Sammy first took a liking to spin bowler Nathan Lyon (0-79), belting the South Australian out of the attack before engaging in an intriguing battle with Shane Watson.

Felled after being struck flush on his helmet by a Watson bouncer, Sammy dusted himself off and retaliated in style on the very next delivery, belting Watson with a beautiful straight drive for six.

In Watson’s next over the battle resumed but the Australian allrounder was left frustrated as he again was put into the Kensington Oval stands, shaking his head in fury at the end of the over.

Sammy then tried to attack Ben Hilfenhaus, clobbering the Tasmanian for another six before he fell two balls later again trying to hit the ball out of the ground.

Through it all the unflappable Chanderpaul contributed eight runs in a 53-run stand for the seventh wicket.

The veteran has batted throughout the day, sharing solid partnerships with Darren Bravo (51), Narsingh Deonarine (21) and Sammy.

Ryan Harris (2-77) and Watson (1-46) have been the pick of Australia’s attack, who are being made to work hard for every wicket.