Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam endured a disappointing outing with the bat during the opening match of the series against the West Indies, failing to make a significant impact in the first innings. Leading the team, Babar Azam managed to score only 23 runs from 38 deliveries before getting dismissed shortly before bad light forced an early end to the day's play. Following his departure, Salman Agha walked out to the crease and faced nine deliveries, remaining unbeaten without opening his account by the time stumps were called.
Shan Masood and Imam-ul-Haq Build a Crucial Partnership
After suffering an early blow when opener Azan Awais departed without scoring, Shan Masood took charge and delivered a resolute performance. He remained unbeaten on 88 runs at the end of the second day, steering his team to a much stronger position. Masood combined with opening partner Imam-ul-Haq, who contributed 63 runs, to construct a vital 155-run partnership for the second wicket, which successfully steadied the visitors' innings after the early setback.
Pakistan's First Innings Score and Current Match Status
Bolstered by these partnerships, Pakistan finished the second day at 199 for three in their first innings, in response to the West Indies' total of 311 runs. The team currently trails the hosts by 112 runs. Play on the second day concluded slightly ahead of schedule due to fading light just after the dismissal of captain Babar Azam, leaving Salman Agha at the crease alongside the unbeaten Masood as they prepare to resume the fightback.
West Indies Batters Post Solid Totals Led by Hope and Hodge
Earlier in the match, the West Indies resumed their first innings from an overnight score of 194 for three and added another 117 runs to their tally. Shai Hope led the charge with a brilliant 92 runs, while Kevem Hodge chipped in with 84 runs. Hodge added just a single run to his overnight score of 83 before getting caught at second slip in the third over of the day, which brought an end to their 91-run stand for the fourth wicket. Hope went on to complete his seventh half-century off 113 balls.
Lower Order Contributions and Pakistan Bowling Figures
Following Hodge's dismissal, Shai Hope partnered with Justin Greaves, who scored 15, Roston Chase with 10, and Shamar Joseph, who added 23 runs, to piece together small yet valuable partnerships. On the bowling front for Pakistan, Mohammad Ali was the pick of the bowlers with four wickets. He was well supported by Mohammad Abbas, who claimed three scalps, while Khurram Shahzad picked up two wickets to wrap up the West Indies' first innings.
