The West Indies secured a historic victory in Pakistan on Monday, defeating the hosts by 120 runs in the second Test at Multan, marking their first Test win in Pakistan in nearly 35 years. This win not only leveled the series 1-1, but also brought the West Indies’ long wait for a Test victory in Pakistan to an end.
The last time the West Indies won a Test in Pakistan was back in November 1990 in Faisalabad. Since then, they have toured Pakistan twice, in 1997 and 2006, without securing a win. But with the performance in Multan, they broke that drought, giving Pakistan a taste of their own medicine on spin-friendly pitches.
Spinner Jomel Warrican was the standout performer, finishing the match with an impressive nine wickets, taking his series total to 19. His contribution with the ball was crucial in dismantling Pakistan’s batting line-up. His excellent performance was complemented by his contribution with the bat, as he scored an important 36 not out in the West Indies’ first innings of 163.
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite expressed his joy at the team’s victory, especially given the long gap since their last success in Pakistan. “We haven’t played in Pakistan for a number of years, but we haven’t won here in a while, so to come here and do it as a young group is incredible,” Brathwaite said. He also lauded Warrican’s all-round performance, recognizing him not only for his bowling but also for his batting. “Apart from his excellent bowling, he always says he’s one of the best players of offspin in the Caribbean, so it’s good to see him get some runs along with wickets.”
On the other hand, Pakistan’s captain Shan Masood defended his team’s strategy, stating that they were in a favorable position early in the match. “On the first day we were in the position we wanted — even better, maybe, when we had them eight down,” Masood said, referring to the West Indies’ first innings where they were bowled out for just 163.
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However, Pakistan’s pursuit of 254 in their second innings fell short. Resuming at 76-4, Pakistan’s hopes were placed on Saud Shakeel, but his dismissal for just 13, caught by Kevin Sinclair, further diminished their chances. Babar Azam top-scored with 31, while Mohammad Rizwan added 25, but the home side was eventually bundled out for 133, falling short by 120 runs.
Warrican played a pivotal role in the final collapse, taking out nightwatchman Kashif Ali for just one with a straighter ball. Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha fought back with a 39-run partnership for the seventh wicket, but Warrican removed Agha for 15 before bowling Rizwan out for 25. Gudakesh Motie, who had taken 2-35, also played his part by dismissing Noman Ali for six. Finally, Warrican sealed the win by bowling Sajid Khan for seven, ensuring the West Indies’ victory.
The defeat left Pakistan struggling in the World Test Championship standings, as they dropped to the bottom of the table in ninth place. Meanwhile, the West Indies moved up to eighth place. The result marks a significant shift in momentum for the West Indies, who have shown resilience and skill throughout the series.
With this defeat, Pakistan will need to reassess its approach as they prepare for future challenges in the World Test Championship. Meanwhile, the West Indies will be buoyed by this victory as they look to build on this momentum in upcoming tours.
Australia, the current World Test Championship title-holders, are set to face South Africa in the WTC final at Lord’s in June, with both teams eyeing the prestigious title.