Pakistan gained a 202-run lead over the West Indies on the second day of the first Test at Multan Cricket Stadium, thanks to a dominant spin attack from Sajid Khan and Noman Ali, who dismantled the visitors’ batting lineup.
The day began with Pakistan’s spinners tearing through the West Indies lineup, setting a favourable stage for their batsmen. Sajid Khan and Noman Ali, the architects of the collapse, left the West Indies struggling to build a competitive score.
In their second innings, Pakistan opened with captain Shan Masood and Muhammad Huraira at the crease. Huraira, however, fell for 29 to spinner Jomel Warrican, who continued his effective attack by dismissing Babar Azam for just five runs. After a resilient 52, Masood returned to the pavilion, leaving Pakistan at 106-3.
Kamran Ghulam and Saud Shakeel were batting when inadequate lighting led to an early end to play, with the score at 109-3. This disruption ended what was poised to be a fruitful session, leaving the next phase of the match highly anticipated.
The West Indies showed minor resistance, mainly through Jomel Warrican, who scored 31 runs earlier. Despite his effort, the West Indies failed to capitalize, crumbling under Pakistan’s targeted bowling pressure.
Pakistan posted 230 runs in the first innings, with significant contributions from Saud Shakeel (84) and Mohammad Rizwan (71), the top scorers. Despite a shaky start, their partnership of 141 runs for the fifth wicket was crucial after Pakistan resumed the day on 143-4.
Kevin Sinclair initiated a batting collapse, claiming Shakeel’s wicket right after the drinks break, which triggered a quick loss of four wickets for just 13 runs. Warrican also shone with three wickets for 69 runs, breaking down Pakistan’s lower order just before lunch.
Read: Sajid Khan and Noman Ali Overwhelm West Indies in Multan Test Match
The day concluded with Pakistan in a strong position but the game finely poised. Tomorrow’s performances will be critical in determining the outcome of this gripping Test match.
