The West Indies have set Pakistan a challenging 254-run target in the final Test of the two-match series at Multan Cricket Stadium. With the series on the line, Pakistan now aims to secure a 2-0 victory. The match saw dramatic twists as bowlers from both sides dominated, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
West Indies’ Second Innings
The West Indies started their second innings with a solid 50-run opening partnership. However, Pakistan’s Noman Ali struck early, dismissing Mikyle Louis for seven in the 12th over. Captain Kraigg Brathwaite responded with a resilient half-century but fell for 52 in the 23rd over, leaving the visitors at 92/2.
Amir Jangoo and Kavem Hodge tried to stabilize the innings but couldn’t hold off Pakistan’s bowling attack. Sajid Khan removed Jangoo for 30, and Noman followed by dismissing Hodge for 15. By lunch, the West Indies were struggling at 129/5 after Noman dismissed Alick Athanaze for six.
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Lower Order Resists
Post-lunch, Pakistan’s bowlers kept up the pressure. Abrar Ahmed claimed his first wicket by sending Justin Greaves back for 10. The lower order showed some fight as Tevin Imlach and Kevin Sinclair built a vital 51-run partnership. However, Sajid Khan dismissed Sinclair for 28, and Kashif Khan got Imlach for 35, leaving the West Indies at 206/8.
Jomel Warrican and Gudakesh Motie added a brief 27-run stand to take their team past 240. Noman and Sajid finished the job, dismissing Warrican and Motie for 18 each, as the West Indies were bowled out for 244 in 66.1 overs. Noman Ali and Sajid Khan led the attack with three wickets each, while Kashif and Abrar claimed one apiece.
Drama on Day 1
The match began with an intense first day as 20 wickets fell. West Indies, batting first, managed only 163 runs in their opening innings. Pakistan’s bowlers exploited the conditions effectively, but the West Indies’ spinners struck back.
In response, Pakistan’s top order faltered. By slipping to 51/4, the hosts faced a crisis. Key players like Babar Azam, Shan Masood, and Kamran Ghulam fell early to Kemar Roach and Gudakesh Motie.
Pakistan’s Middle Order Fights Back
Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan gave Pakistan hope with a crucial 68-run stand for the fifth wicket. Shakeel scored 32, while Rizwan remained unbeaten on 45. However, Shakeel’s dismissal by a stunning Kemar Roach catch broke the momentum.
The remaining wickets fell in quick succession as Pakistan’s innings ended at 154, giving the West Indies a slim nine-run lead. Spinners Jomel Warrican (4-43) and Gudakesh Motie (3-49) were instrumental in restricting Pakistan.
The Final Chase
With a target of 254, Pakistan now has the chance to seal the series 2-0. However, their success will depend on a strong batting display against a disciplined West Indies attack. The final innings promises an exciting conclusion to an intense series.
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