West Indies makes history in Pakistan

West Indies achieved a historic milestone by winning their first Test match in Pakistan since 1990, defeating the hosts by 120 runs in the second Test at Multan on Monday. This victory not only leveled the two-match series at 1-1 but also brought about a turnaround for the West Indies, who had struggled in previous tours.

The match began with the West Indies batting first, scoring 163 runs in their first innings. Pakistan responded with a total of 154, giving the visitors a slender lead. In their second innings, the West Indies posted 244 runs, setting Pakistan a challenging target of 254 runs on a pitch that favored spinners. 

Jomel Warrican was pivotal for the West Indies, claiming five wickets in the second innings and nine wickets overall in the match, earning him both Player of the Match and Player of the Series honors with a total of 19 wickets across both Tests. His performance highlighted his ability to exploit the turning conditions effectively. 

Pakistan’s chase faltered early; starting at 76-4, they relied heavily on Saud Shakeel, who was dismissed for just 13 runs. Babar Azam top-scored for Pakistan with 31 runs, but the team collapsed to 133 all out as Warrican and Gudakesh Motie dismantled their batting lineup. Motie contributed with two key wickets, further sealing Pakistan’s fate. 

This victory was particularly sweet for the West Indies as it ended a long drought of wins in Pakistan, with their last Test victory there occurring in Faisalabad back in November 1990. The West Indies had previously toured Pakistan in 1997 and 2006 without securing a win. 

The defeat left Pakistan struggling at the bottom of the World Test Championship standings, while the West Indies improved to eighth place. The historic win not only boosts West Indies’ morale but also sets a positive tone for what the future of international cricket holds for them.