Multan, January 26, 2025: Pakistan’s batting lineup faltered under the relentless spin attack of the West Indies on Sunday, as the hosts ended day two of the final Test precariously placed at 76/4, chasing 254 runs to secure a series victory.
The visitors struck early, reducing Pakistan to 5/2 within the first three overs. Openers Shan Masood and Mohammad Hurraira fell cheaply, scoring just two runs each against the spin duo of Kevin Sinclair and Gudakesh Motie.
Babar Azam and Kamran Ghulam attempted to stabilize the innings with a 43-run partnership for the third wicket. However, Jomel Warrican broke through, dismissing Ghulam for 19. With Pakistan at 48/3, the pressure continued to mount.
Adding to Pakistan’s woes, Sinclair returned late in the day to remove Babar Azam for a well-compiled 39, leaving the team reeling at 76/4 after 24 overs at stumps. Pakistan now requires 178 more runs to clinch the series, while the West Indies bowlers look poised to capitalize on their momentum.
Pakistan’s spinners had kept their hopes alive by bundling out the West Indies for 244 in their second innings. Resuming with a 50-run opening stand, the visitors’ progress was disrupted by Noman Ali, who dismissed Mikyle Louis for just seven runs.
Captain Kraigg Brathwaite anchored the innings with a gritty 52, but his resistance ended when Noman struck again in the 23rd over. The West Indies stood at 92/2, with Pakistan seizing control.
Amir Jangoo (30) and Kavem Hodge (15) steadied the innings briefly, but Sajid Khan and Noman Ali struck in quick succession to reduce the West Indies to 124/4. Noman continued his stellar spell, removing Alick Athanaze for six as the visitors limped to 129/5 at lunch, holding a lead of 138 runs.
After lunch, Pakistan’s spinners continued to dominate. Abrar Ahmed dismissed Justin Greaves for 10, and the West Indies’ lower order staged a spirited fightback. Tevin Imlach and Kevin Sinclair added a crucial 51-run stand for the eighth wicket before Sajid Khan removed Sinclair for 28.
Kashif Khan contributed by dismissing Imlach for 35, leaving the West Indies at 206/8. Jomel Warrican and Gudakesh Motie added 27 valuable runs for the ninth wicket before Motie fell for 18. Sajid wrapped up the innings, dismissing Warrican for 18, as the visitors were bowled out for 244 in 66.1 overs.
Pakistan’s spinners led the charge, with Noman Ali and Sajid Khan picking up four wickets each. Abrar Ahmed and Kashif Khan chipped in with a wicket apiece, ensuring the target remained within reach for the hosts.
As the match heads into day three, Pakistan faces a daunting task to navigate the West Indies’ spin assault and chase the remaining 178 runs to clinch the series.
