Saud Shakeel departs (Source:@Abidjutt7012,x.com)
On Day 2 of the first Test between Pakistan and the West Indies at the Multan Cricket Stadium, Saud Shakeel's resolute innings of 84 runs off 157 balls came to a dramatic end. He was dismissed by an absolute ripper by Kevin Sinclair in the 57th over. His dismissal came soon after the drinks break, providing a much-needed breakthrough for the visitors.
Sinclair Outfoxes Saud Shakeel With Stellar Delivery
Sinclair bowling around the wicket, delivered a good-length ball on off-stump that pitched and moved away sharply. Saud Shakeel looked to defend with a straight bat, found the ball kissing the edge of his bat. The ball was safely pouched by the keeper, that sparked loud celebrations from the West Indies camp.
It was an stellar delivery, and Shakeel could do little about it. He walked back to the pavilion, falling just 16 runs short of a well-deserved century. It is important to mention that, Shakeel’s departure broke a crucial partnership that had been important for Pakistan’s fightback after a disastrous start.
Pakistan's Distarious Start On Day 1
On Day 1 the home side was reeling at 46/4, with crucial players Babar Azam, Muhammad Huraira, and Kamran Ghulam all failing to reach double figures. Captain Shan Masood also struggled, contributing just 11 runs before being dismissed.
With the team in deep trouble, Shakeel and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan joined forces to steady the innings. Their partnership helped Pakistan to recover from the early setbacks inflicted by the West Indies bowlers.
On Day 1, dense fog in Multan delayed the toss, and only 41.3 overs were possible throughout the day. By the time the conditions improved, the first session was already lost, leaving the hosts in a precarious position as the match began.