Pakistan’s spin bowlers, Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, put on a remarkable performance against the West Indies in Multan, claiming nine wickets between them to bowl the visitors out for just 137 runs during the second session of Day 2. This came after Pakistan struggled to reach a total of 230 in their first innings.
Starting Day 2 at 143 for 4, Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel began with strong contributions. Both batters had helped stabilize the innings the previous day by scoring half-centuries. Rizwan and Shakeel built a solid partnership of 141 runs for the fifth wicket. Shakeel scored 84 runs off 157 balls before being dismissed by Sinclair. Unfortunately, following his exit, the Pakistani batting line-up crumbled quickly, and they were all out for 230 just before lunch. Rizwan contributed 71 runs off 133 deliveries before also falling victim to Sinclair.
In response, West Indies faced a dismal start in the post-lunch session. Sajid Khan struck early, taking four wickets in just five overs, leaving the Windies struggling at 22 for 4. Noman Ali also made a significant impact, achieving a five-wicket haul and wrapping up the West Indies innings at a mere 137 runs, giving Pakistan a comfortable lead of 93 runs.
Despite the West Indies’ lower order putting up some fight, with meaningful contributions from Gudakesh Motie, Jomel Warrican, and Jayden Seales, they managed to reach 137 after being in a tough position at 66 for 8, avoiding a follow-on.
When Pakistan resumed batting in the final session, openers Shan Masood and Muhammad Hurraira played steadily, putting together a 67-run partnership. Hurraira was eventually out for 29 runs off 58 balls, while Babar Azam struggled again, scoring just 5 runs before getting out. Masood, however, managed to score 52 runs off 70 balls before an unfortunate run-out due to a mix-up at the crease.
Bad light then interrupted play and brought Day 2 to a close, with Pakistan holding a 202-run advantage going into Day 3. The West Indies will need a significant effort to turn the match around.
