The cricketing world was treated to an intense contest on Day 2 of the first Test match between Pakistan and the West Indies, held at the Multan Cricket Stadium. After some early struggles, Pakistan managed to post a total of 230 runs before being bowled out, showcasing both resilience and vulnerability against a determined West Indian bowling attack.
Starting the day after ending Day 1 at 143 for 4, Pakistan resumed their innings with Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan leading the charge. Their partnership seemed to revive hopes for the hosts, particularly as the pitch displayed signs of assistance for spinners. Shakeel's careful accumulation of runs, which concluded at 84, marked him as Pakistan’s top scorer, whereas Rizwan's contribution of 71 showcased his adaptability under pressure. Together, they forged a 141-run stand, helping stabilize the innings after the fall of early wickets.
Pakistan’s innings faced early turmoil with the fall of openers Shan Masood and debutant Mohammad Huraira within the first nine overs, spiraling to 46 for 4 within the first hour of play. Jayden Seales was particularly lethal, claiming three wickets and disrupting Pakistan's batting rhythm. Following this, Shakeel and Rizwan stepped up, skillfully negotiating the Windies bowlers until Shakeel succumbed to Kevin Sinclair’s bowling early on Day 2.
Despite the good start from Shakeel and Rizwan, Pakistan's lower order crumbled dramatically after their dismissal, as the team lost six wickets for just 43 runs. Sajid Khan briefly provided resistance, scoring 18 runs before being dismissed, which concluded Pakistan’s innings at 230 runs.
On the bowling front, West Indies’ Jomel Warrican and Kevin Sinclair were instrumental, each taking three and two wickets respectively, exploiting the turning conditions. Warrican's performance particularly stood out, as his disciplined bowling was pivotal in wrapping up Pakistan’s innings just before lunch, leaving the visitors with hopes of posting a competitive total of their own.
After Pakistan’s innings came to a close, the players took their break, with the Windies aiming to maximize their advantage on the same turning track. Kraigg Brathwaite (captain) and Mikyle Louis opened for the West Indies, which had its own share of early nerves. The two openers faced Pakistan’s bowling attack cautiously as the heat ramped up from the home side's desire to capitalize on their modest score. The match continued to evolve, with both teams eager to assert dominance.
Throughout the day, the atmosphere was electric, as expected among passionate cricket fans. The pairing of Shakeel and Rizwan proved key to Pakistan's brief revival, and their familiar batting styles lent much-needed stability at the crease. Yet, the frenetic pace of the Test—a match characterized by early pressure and mounting excitement—kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
Meanwhile, the live streaming of the match was available on the FanCode app, catering to fans eager to stay updated on this electrifying encounter. With the first session witnessing strong performances and the potential for more excitement, anticipation grew for how West Indies would respond to Pakistan’s total and take on the challenge posed by the hosts.
The day’s play ended with West Indies needing to match Pakistan’s score, and they had shown the potential to capitalize on the challenging pitch conditions. That's where the match stood at the close of Day 2, leaving avid fans eager for the next chapter of this gripping contest.