Justin Greaves’ unbeaten fifty lifts West Indies to 239-5 against Pakistan

PORT OF SPAIN: Justin Greaves produced a composed unbeaten half-century to guide the West Indies to 239-5 at stumps on the opening day of the second Test against Pakistan, putting the hosts in a strong position after rain and fading light curtailed play.

Greaves remained unbeaten on 64, while experienced all-rounder Roston Chase was solid on 36 not out, with the pair steering the Caribbean side through the closing stages after Pakistan struck at regular intervals.

Earlier, Brandon King laid the foundation for the innings with an impressive 46, helping the West Indies recover from early setbacks before narrowly missing out on a well-deserved half-century.

Pakistan’s bowlers worked hard on a surface that offered occasional assistance but struggled to build sustained pressure as partnerships frustrated the visitors throughout the day.

Fast bowler Mohammad Ali emerged as Pakistan’s most successful bowler, claiming two wickets with disciplined line and length. Ubaid Shah, Ali Usman, and veteran spinner Sajid Khan picked up one wicket each, ensuring Pakistan stayed in the contest despite West Indies’ steady progress.

The opening day’s play was interrupted by rain and poor light, limiting action to just 74 overs instead of a full day’s schedule. The frequent stoppages disrupted the rhythm of both teams and prevented Pakistan from fully capitalising whenever they gained momentum.

With five wickets still in hand, the West Indies will look to extend their first-innings total beyond 350 when play resumes on Tuesday. Greaves and Chase will be aiming to convert their unbeaten partnership into a match-defining stand.

Pakistan, meanwhile, will target an early breakthrough on the second morning to expose the lower order and prevent the hosts from taking complete control of the contest.

The second day’s opening session is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the direction of the Test, with both teams aware that a strong first-innings performance could prove decisive in the battle for series momentum.