Pakistan vs West Indies: Hosts seek series win against Windies

MULTAN: The cricketing spotlight shifts to Multan as the hosts prepare to clash with the visitors in the second Pakistan vs West Indies clash on Saturday (today).

The second Test of Pakistan vs West Indies two-match series will start at 9:30 am.

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Pakistan currently holds a 1-0 lead in the series following an easy victory in the first test, where they outplayed the West Indies by 127 runs on January 17.

The match is part of the ICC World Test Championship and will take place at the Multan Cricket Stadium.

Kashif Ali debuts

In a notable change to the lineup, Kashif Ali was named in the playing XI, taking the place of Khurram Shahzad. The right-arm fast bowler will make his Test debut today.

Unable to contain his excitement, the bowler stated, “Maybe I am going to make my debut because of my little daughter. I am going to play Test cricket; this is a great achievement”.

His cricketing journey began in 2016, inspired by the legendary Shoaib Akhtar and he cites Mohammad Asif and James Anderson as his role models.

“I will try to benefit the team from my game”, he promised.

Pakistan’s recent performance

The first Test showcased Pakistan’s dominance with both, the bat and the ball. With Shan Masood leading the team, the Men in Green are doing well. Despite a string of disappointing performances last year, including creating one of biggest upsets in the sport;s history by losing to the United States in the T20 World Cup, the Green Shirts seem to be rebounding.

They have won four of their last five matches, including matches against England and a great win against the West Indies in the first Test.

The squad features of a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, with Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq expected to anchor the batting order, while the bowling attack will be led by Abrar Ahmed and the debutant, Kashif Ali.

West Indies squad

Meanwhile, the West Indies have faced challenges in their recent outings, enduring a series of defeats. Their last five matches reflect a difficult stretch, with only one victory against Bangladesh in November 2024.

Captain Kraigg Brathwaite will be looking to galvanise his team and reverse their fortunes in today’s match.

The West Indies squad includes promising players such as Joshua Da Silva and Alick Athanaze, who will need to elevate their performance to pose a serious challenge to Pakistan.

Match schedule and timings

The match is set to unfold over five days, with the playing hours structured to get the most out of the players. The schedule includes a lunch break at 11:30 am  and a tea break at 2:10 pm. Play will conclude each day at 4:30 pm.

Umpires and referee

Umpires Paul Reiffel and Rod Tucker from Australia will officiate the match, while Richard Kettleborough will serve as the TV umpire and Rashid Riaz as the reserve umpire.

The match referee, Ranjan Madugalle from Sri Lanka will oversee the proceedings.

Read more: Head coach’s high hopes from Pakistan Vs West Indies

As the teams gear up for the Pakistan vs West Indies match today, excitement builds up from the fans to see the Green boys on home soil.

With Pakistan aiming to secure a series victory and the West Indies seeking to regain their footing, the stage is set in the City of Saints!