Multan, January 27, 2025: Left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican delivered a match-winning performance, claiming a brilliant five-wicket haul as West Indies secured a resounding 120-run victory over Pakistan, leveling the two-match Test series 1-1. This landmark win marked West Indies’ first Test triumph on Pakistani soil since their seven-wicket victory under Desmond Haynes’ captaincy in Faisalabad in 1990.
Chasing a target of 254, Pakistan crumbled for a mere 133 runs in the first session of Day 3, with Babar Azam top-scoring with a 67-ball 31. Warrican’s exceptional spell of 5-27 was complemented by Kevin Sinclair (3-30) and Gudakesh Motie (2-25), dismantling the Pakistani batting order with ruthless efficiency.
Resuming at an overnight score of 76-4, Pakistan’s fragile batting lineup collapsed within 20 minutes of play. Kevin Sinclair struck early, dismissing Saud Shakeel for 13, followed by night-watchman Kashif Ali, who managed just 1 before falling to Warrican. With Pakistan reeling at 76-6, Mohammad Rizwan (25) and Salman Ali Agha (15) provided a brief resistance, adding 39 runs. However, Warrican’s persistence proved too much, as both batters were sent back in quick succession.
Noman Ali’s valiant six off Motie provided a fleeting moment of hope, but his innings ended shortly after for just six runs. Warrican fittingly sealed the game by claiming the final wicket of Sajid Ali, completing a dominant West Indies victory.
Pakistan’s decline in the World Test Championship
The defeat plunged Pakistan to the bottom of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 standings, with only five wins in 14 matches. Despite a 2-0 series win over Sri Lanka in July 2023, Pakistan struggled to maintain form, managing just three home victories thereafter. Their current position mirrors their struggles in the previous WTC cycle, where they finished eighth.
West Indies also faced challenges in the WTC standings, finishing just above Pakistan in eighth place with a Points Percentage (PCT) of 28.21. However, this victory in Multan was a significant boost for the Caribbean side, showcasing their potential for revival in red-ball cricket.
Shan Masood faces heated exchange with journalist
Following the defeat, Pakistan captain Shan Masood faced tough questions during the post-match press conference. When asked about his captaincy and future in the role, Shan responded with frustration, accusing the journalist of disrespect.
“You have your opinion, and I respect that, but there is a lot of disrespect in your question. You can’t undermine players, including me, like this,” he said. Shan emphasized the importance of constructive criticism backed by facts, urging journalists to approach such discussions with respect.
He also clarified that decisions regarding captaincy rest with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), and players remain committed to their roles. “We play for Pakistan, and every effort we make is to achieve positive results. No one will tolerate such disrespect,” Shan added.
Despite the setback, Shan highlighted Pakistan’s recent successes, including three wins in their last four home Tests, underscoring the team’s efforts to rebuild and deliver consistent performances.
