Shan Masood Leads Pakistan Recovery Against West Indies in First Test

West Indies began the day with a strong position after restricting the hosts to 194 for three on the rain-affected opening day, with Kavem Hodge and Shai Hope providing an unbeaten partnership. Pakistan’s top order initially struggled against the West Indies bowling attack, but Masood and Babar Azam steadied the innings with a crucial partnership that shifted momentum back toward the visitors.

Pakistan lost early wickets after resuming their innings, with opener Abdullah Shafique dismissed for 14 and captain Shan Masood’s opening partner falling cheaply as West Indies seamers found movement from the surface. Former captain Masood then combined with Babar Azam, who made 52, to rebuild the innings before Babar was dismissed after reaching a half-century. Masood continued to anchor the innings alongside Mohammad Rizwan, who remained unbeaten on 26 at the close of play.

Masood’s 88 came from 179 deliveries and included disciplined stroke play as he handled pressure from the West Indies attack. The left-handed batter, who previously captained Pakistan in Test cricket, played a key role in preventing West Indies from building a significant advantage after their bowlers had made early breakthroughs.

The match remains closely balanced heading into the third day, with Pakistan seeking to establish a first-innings lead and West Indies looking to break the partnership and expose the lower order. The two-Test series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle, with both teams aiming to collect important points during the campaign.

Sources: Information attributed to ESPNcricinfo, Times of India and official match reports from the Pakistan-West Indies Test series.