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A Strong Statement in Tarouba
Pakistan’s preparations for the upcoming Test series against the West Indies got off to a confident start as Babar, Awais hit centuries and Mohammad Ali bags five-for in Pakistan’s tour gam held in Tarouba. The four-day encounter provided the touring side with valuable time in the middle and a chance to assess their bowling depth against a competitive West Indies Select XI.
Dominance with the Bat
After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first on a surface that appeared largely flat and conducive to run-scoring. The match began on a somber note, with both teams observing a period of silence to honor the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers, who had passed away the previous day at the age of 89. Despite an early breakthrough by the hosts, removing opener Imam-ul-Haq, the innings found its rhythm through a productive 108-run partnership between Azan Awais and Shan Masood.
Masood, playing his first match since being relieved of the captaincy, looked composed in his knock of 70. However, the highlight of the innings belonged to the young talent Azan Awais. Having already made a mark with a debut hundred in Bangladesh earlier this year, Awais continued his ascent by reaching another century. Following him, the reappointed Test captain Babar Azam took center stage. Babar appeared in complete control, maneuvering the ball effortlessly across the park to reach his own century before voluntarily retiring to allow others time in the middle. Abdullah Fazal also contributed a solid half-century, helping Pakistan declare on 455 for the loss of only four wickets.
Mohammad Ali’s Bowling Masterclass
The West Indies Select XI faced a stern test against Pakistan’s full-strength bowling unit. While the hosts managed to show resistance through a gritty 148-run partnership between Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Kavem Hodge, the game turned decisively once the breakthrough was made. Hodge fell just eight runs short of a century, triggering a dramatic collapse orchestrated by Mohammad Ali.
The collapse saw five wickets fall for a mere 20 runs, shifting the momentum entirely in favor of the visitors. Although the lower order attempted to offer some resistance, Aamer Jamal and Mohammad Ali ensured there was no way back. Ali’s relentless precision saw him claim a well-deserved five-wicket haul, ultimately restricting the West Indies to 279 all out.
Strategic Batting Practice
With a healthy innings lead secured, Pakistan utilized the final day to experiment with their batting lineup. The coaching staff opted to shuffle the order, giving time to players who had not spent significant periods at the crease in the first innings. Mohammad Rizwan was promoted to open the batting but fell in the first over. Subsequent contributions from Salman Ali Agha, Awais Zafar, and Fazal ensured that the squad gained the necessary match fitness.
The match ultimately ended in a draw, with Pakistan having extended their lead to 395 runs with four wickets down in their second innings. While the lack of a result was expected given the nature of the warm-up, the performance provided clear indicators of Pakistan’s preparedness. With the first of two Tests scheduled to begin on July 25 in Tarouba, followed by the second on August 2 in Port of Spain, the team looks well-placed to carry this momentum into the main event.
Looking Ahead
This tour game served as a vital bridge for the players to adjust to the conditions. The return of Babar Azam to the helm and the emergence of young talents like Azan Awais will be crucial factors in the upcoming series. With the bowling attack firing on all cylinders led by Mohammad Ali, Pakistan appears to be a formidable unit as they prepare to face the West Indies in what promises to be a highly competitive Test series.