West Indies post 344 as Sajid Khan shines, Pakistan face must-win Test

PORT OF SPAIN: Pakistan’s hopes of leveling the two-match Test series remain alive after restricting the West Indies to 344 all out on the opening innings of the second Test, thanks largely to an impressive four-wicket haul from off-spinner Sajid Khan.

After winning the toss at Port of Spain, West Indies captain Roston Chase opted to bat first, a decision that paid dividends as his side produced several valuable partnerships to build a competitive first-innings total.

Middle-order batter Justin Greaves led the resistance with a composed 73, while captain Chase contributed a determined 70 to anchor the innings. Opener Brandon King added 46, with Shai Hope making 29 and Amir Jangoo chipping in with 26.

Pakistan’s bowlers, however, fought back effectively after the hosts appeared set for an even bigger total. Sajid Khan emerged as the standout performer, using sharp turn and disciplined lines to finish with four wickets and halt West Indies’ progress at crucial moments.

Fast bowlers Obaid Shah, Mohammad Ali and Ali Usman also made significant contributions, claiming two wickets each to ensure the home side was bowled out for 344.

Speaking at the toss, Pakistan captain Babar Azam revealed that he would also have chosen to bat first had he won the toss. He expressed confidence in his squad, saying the team was determined to play positive cricket and bounce back strongly after losing the opening Test.

On the other hand, Roston Chase said his team wanted to turn its home ground into a fortress and therefore retained the same playing XI for the crucial encounter.

The second Test carries enormous significance for Pakistan, who trail 1-0 in the two-match series. A victory is essential to square the series, while another defeat would hand the West Indies an emphatic series triumph.

With the hosts setting a challenging target of 344 in the first innings, all eyes are now on Pakistan’s batting lineup. The visitors will need a disciplined and resilient performance to seize control of the contest and keep their hopes of salvaging the series alive.