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Pakistan delivered a commanding performance to secure a 127-run win over the West Indies in the opening Test at the Multan Cricket Stadium on Sunday (January 19). Despite initial batting hiccups, the hosts displayed resilience with the bat and brilliance with the ball to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The match witnessed a spectacular catch by Salman Ali Agha and a dominant display of spin bowling that dismantled the West Indies batting lineup.
Salman Ali Agha’s stunning catch steals the show
One of the standout moments of the match was Salman’s breathtaking catch at slip on Day 3. The incident occurred in the 35th over of the West Indies’ innings when Abrar Ahmed bowled a length ball outside off that took an awkward bounce from the surface. Kevin Sinclair, unable to handle the rearing delivery, edged it towards the slip cordon. Salman, stationed at slip, reacted instantly, diving forward to grab the ball at shoulder height. His acrobatic effort not only sent Sinclair packing but also set the tone for Pakistan’s dominance in the field.
Here is the video:
Ice-cool from @SalmanAliAgha1! 🤩🤷♂️
Catch of the match❓ 👏#PAKvWI | #RedBallRumble pic.twitter.com/cEnoHDVJG1
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) January 19, 2025
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Sajid Khan shines as Pakistan demolishes West Indies by 127 runs in the 1st Test
Pakistan spinners wreak havoc
Pakistan’s spin bowlers were the architects of their victory, exploiting the conditions to perfection. Sajid Khan emerged as the chief destroyer, taking nine wickets across both innings. His fifer on Day 3 was instrumental in wrapping up the West Indies’ second innings for just 123 runs. Abrar also played a pivotal role, claiming four wickets in the second innings, including key dismissals like Gudakesh Motie and Jomel Warrican.
The West Indies batting lineup crumbled under the pressure, failing to cross 150 in either innings. They were bowled out for 137 in the first innings and 123 in the second, leaving them well short of Pakistan’s target. Pakistan’s spinners exploited the variable bounce and turn on offer, leaving the visiting batters searching for answers.
Second Test awaits
The teams will reconvene at the Multan Cricket Stadium for the second and final Test, starting on January 25. With this win, Pakistan have taken a firm grip on the series and will be eager to seal a 2-0 victory. Meanwhile, the West Indies will need to regroup quickly to level the series and avoid a clean sweep.
