The West Indies took a commanding 1-0 lead in the two-match series, dismantling Pakistan by 90 runs on the final day of the first Test. What looked like a competitive chase at the start of the morning session quickly crumbled under disciplined pace bowling, handing the hosts a decisive victory.
Pakistan began the day needing 150 runs with six wickets in hand, a manageable task on a flattening pitch. That hope evaporated within the first hour. Kemar Roach struck twice in his opening spell, removing the set overnight batters and effectively breaking the spine of the Pakistan lineup.
The visitors were bundled out for 182, failing to cope with the relentless pressure applied by the Caribbean pacers. Shamar Joseph proved the chief destroyer, cleaning up the tail with a fiery burst that left the Pakistani dressing room stunned. His ability to hit the deck hard and move the ball away from the right-handers turned a potential nail-biter into a one-sided affair.
“We knew the pitch would offer something early,” West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite said after the presentation. “The boys stuck to the plan, kept it simple, and the results followed.”
For Pakistan, the defeat highlights a recurring struggle with consistency. Their top order failed to fire in both innings, leaving the middle order with too much to do against a rejuvenated West Indies attack. Babar Azam’s departure early in the morning session acted as the final nail in the coffin, leaving the lower order to face a swinging ball with little experience to lean on.
While the pitch offered some assistance to the seamers, Pakistan’s shot selection drew criticism from experts watching from the stands. Several batters fell to deliveries that could have been left alone, suggesting a lack of mental fortitude when the pressure mounted.
The loss puts immense pressure on Pakistan ahead of the second Test. With the series on the line, the team management faces difficult questions regarding their squad balance and the technical approach of their top-order batters.
The two teams head to the second Test in three days. Pakistan needs a complete overhaul of its approach; the West Indies, meanwhile, have found a blueprint for success they won’t be eager to change.
