TAROUBA: Shan Masood and Imam-ul-Haq produced a strong batting recovery as Pakistan reached 199-3 at the close of the second day of the first Test against the West Indies at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Sunday.
Pakistan, who were responding to West Indies’ first-innings total of 311, remained 112 runs behind with Shan Masood unbeaten on 88 off 137 balls and Salman Ali Agha not out on zero.
How Did Shan Masood and Imam-ul-Haq Stabilize Pakistan’s Innings?
Pakistan suffered an early setback when opener Azan Awais was dismissed for a nine-ball duck by Kemar Roach, who delivered a ball that crashed into the stumps.
The visitors responded through a 155-run second-wicket partnership between Shan Masood and Imam-ul-Haq, which shifted momentum back in Pakistan’s favor.
Masood played an attacking role, scoring regularly through boundaries and completing his 15th Test half-century, while Imam provided stability from the other end. Imam later reached his 11th Test fifty as the pair pushed Pakistan beyond the 150-run mark.
Their partnership ended when Shamar Joseph dismissed Imam for 63 off 102 balls, including seven fours, leaving Pakistan at 156-2.
Captain Babar Azam then joined Masood and added 41 runs before being dismissed by Jayden Seales for 23 off 38 deliveries, reducing Pakistan to 197-3.
How Did Pakistan’s Bowlers Restrict West Indies?
Earlier, West Indies were bowled out for 311 after choosing to bat first.
Wicketkeeper-batter Shai Hope top-scored for the hosts with 92 off 182 balls, while Kevlon Hodge contributed a resilient 84 off 183 deliveries.
Pakistan’s bowling attack kept West Indies from building a larger total, with Mohammad Ali leading the effort with figures of 4-50 in 21.5 overs.
Mohammad Abbas claimed three wickets, while Khurram Shahzad took two and Aamer Jamal added one as Pakistan maintained pressure throughout the innings.
Pakistan will resume their first innings on day three looking to overcome the remaining deficit and build a first-innings lead.