Pakistan vs West Indies 1st Test Day 1: Rizwan and Shakeel Rescue Hosts
Multan: The first day of the first Test match between Pakistan and West Indies at the Multan Cricket Stadium was a day of contrasting fortunes. After a shaky start, Pakistan were rescued by a brilliant partnership between Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel, who remained unbeaten on 51 and 56 respectively at stumps.
Early Struggles:
Pakistan captain, Shan Masood, won the toss and elected to bat first. However, the hosts got off to a disastrous start, losing their first four wickets for just 46 runs. Openers Shan Masood and Mohammad Huraira were dismissed cheaply, followed by Kamran Ghulam and Babar Azam.
Rizwan and Shakeel’s Resistance:
The introduction of Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel steadied the ship for Pakistan. The duo put on a crucial 97-run partnership to take their team to 143/4 at stumps. Rizwan, known for his aggressive batting style, played a more cautious innings, while Shakeel, a newcomer to Test cricket, looked composed and assured.
West Indies’ Bowling:
Jayden Seales was the pick of the bowlers for West Indies, picking up three wickets in the first session. Jomel Warrican also chipped in with a wicket.
Day 2 Preview:
With Pakistan still trailing in the first innings, day 2 promises to be an exciting one. The hosts will be hoping to build on their partnership and post a challenging total. West Indies will be looking to take early wickets and put pressure on the Pakistan batsmen.
Key Takeaways:
- Pakistan’s top order struggled against the West Indies bowling attack.
- Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel played crucial knocks to rescue Pakistan.
- Jayden Seales was the pick of the bowlers for West Indies.
Rizwan-Shakeel Resurgence: However, the introduction of Rizwan and Shakeel brought a much-needed sense of calm to the proceedings. The duo forged a crucial 97-run partnership, displaying resilience and composure against a probing West Indies bowling attack. Rizwan, known for his aggressive strokeplay, showcased his adaptability by playing a more measured innings, while Shakeel, a relative newcomer to Test cricket, impressed with his maturity and technique.
West Indies’ Bowling Prowess: Jayden Seales spearheaded the West Indies bowling attack, picking up three crucial wickets in the first session. Jomel Warrican also chipped in with a wicket, further emphasizing the visitors’ dominance with the ball.
Day 2 Preview: With Pakistan still trailing in the first innings, the second day promises to be a crucial one. The hosts will be aiming to build on the strong foundation laid by Rizwan and Shakeel and post a challenging total. Conversely, West Indies will be looking to capitalize on any early breakthroughs and exert further pressure on the Pakistani batting order.
Key Takeaways:
- Top Order Collapse: Pakistan’s top order displayed a concerning lack of resilience against the West Indies bowling attack.
- Rizwan-Shakeel Partnership: The duo’s partnership proved to be a lifeline for Pakistan, rescuing them from a precarious position.
- Seales’ Dominance: The West Indies pacer emerged as the standout bowler, showcasing his skill and aggression.
Day 2 Preview:
Pakistan will be looking to build on the partnership between Rizwan and Shakeel and post a challenging total. West Indies will be aiming to take early wickets and put pressure on the remaining Pakistan batsmen.
