The West Indies men’s team now lead the two-match Test series against Pakistan 1-0 after an impressive performance in the first game at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad & Tobago.
The game had strong periods where both teams dominated. However, the Men in Maroon ultimately won within four days, on the birthday of the late West Indies cricketing hero Sir Garfield Sobers, and on the eve of his state funeral.
Several players contributed to the West Indies’ effort. In the first innings, captain Shai Hope and Kavem Hodge put together a 91-run partnership, helping the team reach 311 on a challenging pitch. Hodge scored 84, and Hope made 92. Shamar Joseph also added a quick 23 runs from just 13 balls.
Although Pakistan started their innings quickly, scoring boundaries in rapid succession, the West Indians dug deep to gain a 29-run lead. This was despite a brilliant 109 from Shan Masood, the lone century in the match, with Imam-ul-Haq adding 63.
This innings stood out because of Justin Greaves’s bowling. He took his first five-wicket haul, delivering five consecutive wicket maidens and finishing with career-best figures of 5-27. Greaves became the first player to take wickets in five straight overs without giving up a run.
The West Indies struggled with the bat in the second innings, finishing on 181 all out. Another cameo from Joseph, this time worth 38 runs, pushed the lead over 200, giving the bowlers a solid chance to bowl the Pakistanis out. Mohammad Abbas finished the innings with 5 for 22.
Needing one last effort to win, the West Indies bowlers stepped up. Jayden Seales led the way with five wickets, helping to bowl Pakistan out for 120 and secure a 1-0 series lead. All 40 wickets in the match were taken by pace bowlers.
The West Indies will aim for a series sweep when the second Test begins on August 2, hoping for back-to-back series wins.
