In a commanding display of cricket, Pakistan’s spinners, led by Noman Ali, dismantled the West Indies batting line-up, bowling them out for 163 in the second and final Test at the Multan Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
Noman Ali was particularly lethal, claiming six wickets for just 41 runs. Sajid Khan supported well with two wickets for 64 runs, while Kashif Ali and Abrar Ahmed each took a wicket.
The resilience of the West Indies’ tailenders briefly stemmed the tide, with Gudakesh Motie notching an unbeaten 55, Jomel Warrican adding 36, and Kemar Roach contributing 25. Kavem Hodge was the only batsman to reach double figures with 21 runs.
The day started with the West Indies opting to bat first on a spin-friendly pitch, mirroring conditions from the previous Test where Pakistan secured a victory. The effectiveness of the spin attack was evident as seven of the Windies’ lineup, including captain Kraigg Brathwaite, failed to score in double digits.
The partnership between Hodge and Motie provided a brief respite for the visiting team, adding crucial runs to the scoreboard. Noman Ali highlighted his skill with a hat-trick in the 12th over, quickly removing Justin Greaves, Tevin Imlach, and Kevin Sinclair.
Pakistan, leading the two-match series 1-0 after a decisive win in the first Test also in Multan, introduced 30-year-old fast bowler Kashif Ali in place of Khurram Shahzad. Meanwhile, the West Indies adjusted due to injury, bringing in veteran pacer Kemar Roach and giving Amir Jangoo his debut, replacing Keacy Carty.
This series is part of the World Test Championship’s third cycle, with Pakistan and the West Indies positioned eighth and ninth, respectively.
During a Friday press conference at Multan Cricket Stadium, West Indies captain Brathwaite expressed his team’s determination to rebound in the second Test to level the series. He stressed the need for resilience and confidence, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the spin-friendly pitches, and hoped for a better performance in this match.
