Day 1 of the first Test between West Indies and Pakistan ended on even footing. It was an intense day of cricket which saw 12 dismissals despite close to 20 overs being lost due to rain in the first two sessions. West Indies would have been happier of the two teams for their bowling efforts, had the last four overs of the day not cost them two wickets.
Earlier, Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales troubled the Pakistan top order. They shared the first four Pakistan wickets, and Mohammad Rizwan’s dismissal reduced Pakistan to 101/5.
But a partnership of 85 between Fawad Alam and Faheem Ashraf rescued the innings. nce Faheem was run out, for 44, Fawad did not get much support from the tail and was dismissed for 56. The West Indians picked up last three Pakistan wickets without conceding a run, ending the innings on 217. Jason Holder finished with 3-26 and Seales with 3-70.
West Indies could bat for four overs, but they had an ordinary start. Mohammad Abbas picked up Kieran Powell and Nkrumah Bonner with consecutive balls to put them in trouble. They finished the day on 2/2.
West Indies will have to ensure their bowling effort is not wasted by a sub-par batting performance. Kraigg Brathwaite and Roston Chase, the senior men, can turn this match towards West Indies. However, the likes of Kyle Mayers, Jermaine Blackwood, and Jason Holder have to step up and keep the Pakistani bowlers at bay. West Indies will look to score at least 300 to have a significant lead over Pakistan.
Abbas has started brilliantly, and his teammates – Shaheen Shah Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Yasir Shah – must chip in with their varying styles of bowling. Yasir, in particular, will be expected to bowl long spells on Day 2. Playing him comfortably will be a challenge for the West Indies batters. Bad weather threat still looms, and it will be interesting to see how that has an impact on Day 2 and the overall match.
Betway fantasy tips
Roston Chase has a good record against Pakistan. From West Indies’ standpoint, it is important that he finds his groove and play a long innings.
Mohammad Abbas has already taken two wickets in two overs. Pakistan have not got a big score, but a similar spell from Abbas may secure a lead for them.
Yasir Shah has emerged as a great strengths for Pakistan in recent years. He is likely to trouble the West Indians once he finds his rhythm.