Sat Jan 25 15:56:05 UTC 2025: ## Spin Dominates as West Indies Edge Pakistan in Multan Thriller

**Multan, Pakistan:** A breathtaking display of spin bowling dominated the first day of the second Test between West Indies and Pakistan in Multan, resulting in a thrilling close finish. West Indies, despite a shaky start, ended the day with a narrow nine-run lead (163-154) after a remarkable fightback.

Pakistan, following Head Coach Aaqib Javed’s promise of a spin-friendly pitch, lived up to expectations. Noman Ali spearheaded the attack, claiming a sensational hat-trick – the first by a Pakistani spinner in Tests – and ultimately finishing with figures of 6 for 41. His devastating spell reduced West Indies to a perilous 54 for 8. However, a stunning lower-order resurgence, spearheaded by Gudakesh Motie (55) and Jomel Warrican (36*), propelled the visitors to 163.

West Indies, electing to bat first after winning the toss, initially struggled against Pakistan’s spin attack. The top order crumbled quickly, but the lower order defiance turned the tide, mirroring their heroics in the previous Test.

In response, Pakistan also suffered at the hands of the West Indies spinners. Warrican (4-43) and Motie (3-49) wreaked havoc, dismantling Pakistan’s batting line-up. Only Mohammad Rizwan (49) and Saud Shakeel offered any significant resistance as Pakistan were bowled out for 154. Kemar Roach also provided early breakthroughs for the West Indies with the new ball.

The day witnessed a remarkable turnaround in fortunes for both teams, highlighting the challenging conditions presented by the Multan pitch. The match promises a captivating contest, with the focus shifting to whether West Indies can build on their first-innings advantage and whether Pakistan can adapt their batting strategy to counter the spin. Pakistan’s coach has vowed to focus on getting his batters better prepared for similar conditions.

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