West Indies take first-innings lead 

West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves produced a sensational bowling performance, claiming five wickets for just 27 runs in 11 overs, to put his team in complete control after dismissing Pakistan for 282 in the first innings. His remarkable spell dismantled Pakistan’s lower order and ensured the hosts secured a 29-run first-innings lead, giving West Indies a significant advantage in the Test match.

Greaves was well supported by the rest of the bowling attack. Veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach and pacer Shamar Joseph each picked up two wickets, while Jayden Seales contributed with one dismissal. Together, the West Indies bowlers maintained relentless pressure throughout Pakistan’s innings and prevented the visitors from posting a commanding total.

Earlier in the day, Pakistan resumed their innings at 199 for 3, with captain Shan Masood and vice-captain Salman Ali Agha at the crease. The pair displayed patience and composure, frustrating the West Indies bowlers as they added 47 valuable runs for the fourth wicket. Their partnership helped Pakistan build a solid platform and raised hopes of a substantial first-innings total.

Shan Masood continued his impressive form and reached a memorable century. The left-handed batter scored 109 runs from 184 deliveries, striking 12 boundaries during his well-crafted innings. It was the seventh Test century of his career and his first Test hundred against the West Indies. Masood’s innings was marked by discipline, determination, and excellent shot selection as he anchored Pakistan’s batting effort for most of the innings.

However, soon after Masood’s dismissal, Pakistan’s batting lineup suffered a dramatic collapse. Salman Ali Agha, who had provided useful support with 20 runs off 60 balls, was bowled by Shamar Joseph, triggering the downfall of the middle and lower order.

Justin Greaves then produced a devastating spell that completely changed the course of the innings. He first dismissed Aamir Jamal for 3 runs, followed by the wicket of debutant Ali Usman, who was out without scoring. Greaves then removed Mohammad Rizwan for 12 runs, leaving Pakistan in serious trouble. His disciplined line and length exposed the visitors’ lower-order weaknesses and prevented any meaningful recovery.

Pakistan eventually lost their remaining wickets in quick succession and were bowled out for 282. Despite Shan Masood’s excellent century, the visitors failed to capitalize on the strong start they had made earlier in the day, with the lower order unable to offer much resistance against the disciplined West Indies bowling attack.

By securing a 29-run first-innings lead, West Indies gained an important psychological and tactical advantage in the match. The lead places the home side in a strong position as they prepare to bat in their second innings, while Pakistan will need an outstanding bowling performance to make a comeback. With momentum firmly on the hosts’ side, the contest has shifted in West Indies’ favor, setting up an intriguing battle in the remaining days of the Test match.