The West Indies gained a slender nine-run lead over Pakistan on Saturday as spinners dominated the opening day of the second Test at Multan Cricket Stadium, with Noman Ali achieving the remarkable feat of becoming the first Pakistan spinner to register a Test hat-trick.
The West Indies, after winning the toss and opting to bat first, finished their first innings at 163 runs. The host nation struggled to respond, bowled out for 154, leaving the visitors with their narrow advantage as they ended Day 1 with 16 wickets falling to spin—a record for the most by spinners on the opening day of a Test, surpassing the previous record of 14 set between England and South Africa back in 1907.
Noman’s six-wicket haul, amounting to 6-41, included key dismissals early on, sparking the West Indies' collapse as they fell to 7-38 at one point. The spinners went to work once again, with West Indies’ Gudakesh Motie contributing significantly with the bat, scoring 55 and helping to stabilize the innings with Jomel Warrican, who remained not out on 36. They managed to add 68 runs for the last wicket, showcasing resilience under pressure.
Pakistan, having established their reputation on home soil, looked to employ the same spin-heavy tactics which earned them victory by 127 runs during the first Test, also played at Multan. Despite the early resistance shown by the West Indies batters, it was Noman Ali’s brilliance with the ball, turning the tide, leading critics to note his potential for becoming one of the leading spinners for Pakistan.
Pakistan’s batting fortunes appeared to hinge on the performance of their top-order batsmen, yet only Mohammad Rizwan (49) and Saud Shakeel (32) managed to find any real partnership as they added 68 runs for the fifth wicket. Rizwan seemed the most comfortable at the crease, but wickets fell steadily around him, and the team crumbled from 119-4 to 154 all out.
Fast bowler Kemar Roach, together with fellow bowler Motie, was effective early on—connected through disciplined bowling spells and the sharpness of their attacks. Roach dismissed openers Muhammad Hurraira and Shan Masood early, and Motie sent back the likes of Babar Azam and Kamran Ghulam quickly, resulting in Pakistan falling to 51-4.
The day's proceedings underscored the fragility of both batting line-ups as the turning pitch favored the spinners from the outset, compelling each team to adjust continually. Noman's hat-trick occurred during one of the most tumultuous periods for the West Indies, who went from 32-2 to 38-8, severely putting them on the back foot.
Noman followed through his hat-trick with decisive tactics, deceiving both Justin Greaves and Kevin Sinclair to help Pakistan finish the day with their tails up. His achievement is noteworthy not just for the day but for the history of Pakistan cricket in Tests, solidifying his performance as worthy of mention alongside legendary spinners who have graced the game.
Aside from Noman Ali's standout performance, it is worth recognizing the spirited effort from the West Indies, primarily through Motie's innings which was built on tenacity when the situation appeared dire. If not for his resilience, they may have faced even steeper challenges entering the second Test match.
The attention now shifts to Day 2, where the West Indies will look to extend their lead, relying on their bowlers to restrict Pakistan even more. Both teams have much to play for as they brace for what’s promising to be another thrilling chapter within this riveting Test series.
With the backdrop of Multan providing what has proven to be another intriguing battle, cricket fans worldwide remain focused on how this test will unravel, especially following the records and milestones achieved on the opening day.