Islamabad, 10 January 2025: West Indies began their preparations for the upcoming two-match Test series with a strong showing on the first day of their three-day warm-up match against Pakistan Shaheens. Alick Athanaze, the highlight of the day, came tantalizingly close to a century, scoring 99 runs in a confident display at the Islamabad Club Ground. This non-first-class match saw the teams mutually agree for the West Indies to bat first, skipping the toss.
Athanaze Shines with Gritty Knock
Alick Athanaze, a left-handed batter, demonstrated composure and skill while batting at No. 5. His innings of 99 runs included 15 boundaries and a six, compiled over 142 balls. However, he fell just one run short of a well-deserved century when Ahmed Safi Abdullah dismissed him. Athanaze’s knock provided stability in the middle order and was pivotal in helping the visitors close the day at 273-7 in 74 overs.
Steady Start by the Openers
The West Indies openers, Kraigg Brathwaite and Mikyle Louis, built a solid platform with a 47-run opening stand. Brathwaite scored 34 off 39 balls, hitting five fours and a six, before Ahmed Safi sent him back to the pavilion. Louis contributed an equal 34 off 63 balls, striking four boundaries and a six, but he fell victim to leg-spinner Mohammad Rameez Jnr.
Shaheens’ Bowlers Deliver Key Blows
Pakistan Shaheens’ bowlers had their moments on a day dominated by the West Indies batters. Mohammad Rameez Jnr impressed with figures of 3-40 in 13 overs, dismissing Louis, Keacy Carty (22), and Kavem Hodge (17). Ahmed Safi Abdullah picked up 2-91, including the key wicket of Athanaze. Hussain Talat chipped in by removing Tevin Imlach (13).
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Middle-Order Resilience
West Indies’ middle order showed resilience, with Amir Jangoo (29 not out) and Joshua Da Silva (11 not out) finishing the day unbeaten. Jangoo struck two boundaries and a six in his 42-ball stay, while Da Silva played a cautious 28-ball knock. The pair will resume on day two, aiming to capitalize on the remaining 16 overs of the first innings, which has been restricted to 90 overs for optimal practice.
Match Summary
- West Indies: 273-7 in 74 overs
- Top Performers:
- Alick Athanaze: 99 (142b, 15x4s, 1×6)
- Kraigg Brathwaite: 34 (39b, 5x4s, 1×6)
- Mikyle Louis: 34 (63b, 4x4s, 1×6)
- Shaheens’ Bowling Highlights:
- Mohammad Rameez Jnr: 3-40
- Ahmed Safi Abdullah: 2-91
- Top Performers:
This warm-up match is crucial for both teams as they fine-tune their strategies for the Test series. Day two promises more action, with West Indies looking to extend their innings and Shaheens aiming for a strong response.
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