ANI
Multan
West Indies moved closer to leveling the series by reducing Pakistan to 76/4 at stumps on Day 2 in Multan. The hosts, chasing 254, still require 178 runs to win with six wickets in hand, ESPNcricinfo reported.
Earlier, West Indies produced their best batting display of the series, led by captain Kraigg Brathwaite’s half-century and valuable lower-order contributions that helped them seize control.
In the final session, West Indies dominated with the ball, taking four significant wickets, including the crucial late dismissal of Babar Azam. Nightwatchman Kashif Ali replaced him at the crease, leaving Pakistan in a precarious position.
The hosts’ chase got off to a poor start as both openers fell within the first 16 deliveries. Shan Masood was trapped lbw by Kevin Sinclair, playing for turn against a delivery that went straight on, while Mohammad Hurraira misread a non-existent spin from Gudakesh Motie and was similarly dismissed.
Brathwaite had earlier set the tone for his side with an aggressive approach. He launched Sajid Khan for a six over long-on in the fifth over and followed up with consecutive boundaries off Noman Ali, signaling that West Indies would not allow Pakistan’s spinners to dictate terms.
West Indies’ disciplined bowling attack ensured the target appeared even more formidable. ScorescColor:> Pakistan 154 and 76 for 4 (Babar 31, Ghulam 19, Sinclair 2-41) West Indies 163 and 244 (Brathwaite 52, Sajid 4-76, Noman 4-80).
