Multan: Day 2 of the first Test match between Pakistan and the West Indies began with a remarkable recovery effort by Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel, who displayed tremendous resilience to bring Pakistan back into the contest. The duo, resuming on a challenging spin-friendly pitch, stitched together a vital partnership, keeping Pakistan’s hopes alive.
Shakeel and Rizwan combined for a crucial stand, adding valuable runs with their balanced stroke play. Their ability to score freely across the ground highlighted their skill and determination. Saud Shakeel, demonstrating exceptional technique against spin, played a superb knock of 84 runs before falling to Kevin Sinclair, caught behind just short of a well-deserved century. His dismissal left Pakistan at 187/5, still in a precarious position.
After Shakeel’s departure, the remaining batting lineup struggled to counter the West Indies’ disciplined bowling attack. Mohammad Rizwan, however, fought valiantly, scoring a brilliant 71 runs, but the lower order offered little resistance. Pakistan’s innings eventually folded at 230 all out, with Rizwan and Shakeel as the standout performers who saved Pakistan from an early scare.
For the West Indies, the bowling attack delivered a collective effort. Jayden Seales and Jomel Warrican claimed three wickets each, while Kevin Sinclair took two vital dismissals, including the key wicket of Shakeel. Their consistent pressure ensured Pakistan couldn’t capitalize further on the strong partnership.
After the lunch break, the West Indies began their first innings with high hopes but suffered a dramatic collapse, being bowled out for just 137 runs. The inexperienced batting lineup struggled against Pakistan’s spinners, who exploited the turn and bounce on offer.
Sajid Khan was the star early on, taking the first four wickets to leave the visitors reeling. He was well-supported by Nauman Ali, who dismantled the lower order with a stunning five-wicket haul. Together, the duo delivered a commanding performance, leaving the West Indies batsmen with no answers.
Despite the poor showing from the top and middle order, the West Indies’ lower-order batsmen salvaged some pride. Jomel Warrican remained unbeaten with a gritty 31 runs, while Jayden Seales contributed 22 runs, and Gudakesh Motie added 19 runs. These contributions helped the visitors avoid the embarrassment of failing to cross 100. The disciplined effort ensured Pakistan secured a crucial 93-run lead heading into their second innings.