Pakistan’s spinners Sajid Khan and Abrar Ahmed delivered a clinical performance to secure a 127-run victory against the West Indies on the third day of the first Test in Multan. The hosts took a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, thanks to Sajid’s 5-50 and Abrar’s 4-27. West Indies, chasing a target of 251, collapsed for 123, with Pakistan’s spin trio exploiting the sharply turning pitch.
Spinners Dominate the Second Innings
Sajid Khan was the star of the match, finishing with outstanding figures of 9-115 across both innings. His wickets included key dismissals of Kraigg Brathwaite, Keacy Carty, and Alick Athanaze. Abrar Ahmed provided crucial support with his four-wicket haul, including the final scalp of Jomel Warrican. Noman Ali chipped in with one wicket, completing a dominant performance by Pakistan’s spinners.
West Indies’ left-hander Alick Athanaze was the only resistance, scoring 55 and forming a 41-run partnership with Tevin Imlach. However, his dismissal by Sajid ended any hopes of a comeback for the tourists.
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Pakistan’s Second Innings Collapse
Despite the victory, Pakistan’s batting woes persisted. Resuming on 109-3, the hosts added just 48 runs before being bowled out for 157. Jomel Warrican led the West Indies’ fightback with a career-best 7-32, securing match figures of 10-101. His effort marked the best performance by a West Indian spinner in Pakistan, surpassing Malcolm Marshall’s 5-33 in 1986.
Warrican dismantled Pakistan’s middle and lower order, dismissing Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan early on the third day. He continued his onslaught by removing Kamran Ghulam, Noman Ali, and Sajid Khan.
Shan Masood Praises Bowlers, Calls for Better Batting
Pakistan captain Shan Masood credited the spinners for their match-winning performance but highlighted the need for improved batting. “The spinners were clinical, and Abrar along with Noman and Sajid was brilliant,” he said. “Batting was tough on this pitch, but we must add more runs with the tail and focus on making improvements.”
West Indies Skipper Seeks Bravery from Batters
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite expressed disappointment in his side’s batting. “The batters didn’t perform as they should have,” he said. “Alick showed how to play on this pitch. We need to be braver and believe in ourselves ahead of the second Test.”
A Spin-Friendly Contest
The Multan pitch offered significant turn, favoring spinners from the outset. Sajid and Noman had earlier been instrumental in Pakistan’s series win against England, taking 39 of 40 wickets in the last two Tests. The trend continued as they dismantled West Indies’ batting lineup in both innings of this match.
Looking Ahead
With the second Test scheduled to begin on January 25 in Multan, Pakistan will look to seal the series, while West Indies aim to regroup and address their batting frailties. The spin-friendly conditions will likely remain a key factor in the final clash.
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