Noman Ali stars as Pakistan spinners dominate West Indies in second Test

January 25,2025
Blogs

Pakistan’s spinners, led by a brilliant Noman Ali, dominated the first innings on the opening day of the second Test against the West Indies in Multan.

The visitors, who chose to bat after winning the toss, were reeling at 129-9 by lunch, with Noman’s hat-trick stealing the show.

 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Pakistan Cricket (@therealpcb)

Noman Ali, 38, became the first Pakistani spinner to claim a Test hat-trick, dismissing Justin Greaves, Tevin Imlach, and Kevin Sinclair in consecutive deliveries.

 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Pakistan Cricket (@therealpcb)

He finished the session with figures of 5-37, showcasing his expertise on a pitch offering turn and bounce.

 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Pakistan Cricket (@therealpcb)

Sajid Khan provided solid support, taking 2-52, while debutant Kashif Ali claimed his maiden Test wicket early in the innings, dismissing Mikyle Louis.

The West Indies struggled against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling, with only Gudakesh Motie (34) and Jomel Warrican (17) offering brief resistance.

Earlier, West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite (9) fell to Noman after reviewing an LBW decision, which was upheld.

The visitors appeared unable to adapt to the conditions, with loose strokes and missed opportunities adding to their woes.

Pakistan captain Shan Masood expressed confidence in his team’s strategy, highlighting the importance of consistency on spin-friendly pitches. “It’s crucial to capitalise on the conditions and restrict the opposition to a below-par score,” he said.

 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Pakistan Cricket (@therealpcb)