West Indies Face Another Spin Challenge as Pakistan Eyes a Clean Sweep

Big Picture

The second Test match between Pakistan and West Indies promises to be another spin-heavy affair. With Pakistan doubling down on spin-friendly pitches, West Indies face an uphill battle to adapt to conditions that have already tested their technique and patience. The pitch at Multan is expected to break up early, making spin the dominant factor from the first session itself.

For West Indies, the key lies in execution. Captain Kraigg Brathwaite has called on his team to step up, emphasizing the need to iron out mistakes from the first Test. While Pakistan’s spin attack took charge in the previous game, West Indies showed glimpses of resilience. Spinner Jomel Warrican outperformed Pakistan’s spinners in terms of figures, and Kemar Roach remains a lethal weapon for the few moments when pace comes into play.

What’s at Stake for Pakistan?
Pakistan’s interim head coach, Aaqib Javed, has defended the preparation of spin-friendly pitches, stating it plays to Pakistan’s strengths. While this approach ensures success in the short term, concerns linger about its long-term impact on Pakistan’s Test batting and fast-bowling development.

Captain Shan Masood, who has been under scrutiny during his tenure, has a chance to end this WTC cycle on a high note. With a century and a fifty in his last three innings, Masood hopes to lead his team to another victory and silence the critics for now.

Alick Athanaze: West Indies’ Key Player
One of the standout performers for West Indies has been Alick Athanaze. The Dominican batter has been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging series for his team. He scored a gritty half-century in the fourth innings of the first Test and was responsible for nearly half his team’s runs in that innings. His technique has drawn praise from cricket legends like Brian Lara and Ian Bishop, and he will be crucial if West Indies are to mount a comeback.

Team News

• Pakistan: Pakistan have yet to finalize their XI. With spin being the focus, they are likely to field three spinners, including Abrar Ahmed, who has been pivotal in Pakistan’s recent Test wins.
  Likely XI: Shan Masood (c), Muhammad Hurraira, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Khurram Shahzad.

• West Indies: Jayden Seales will miss out due to a niggle, while Kemar Roach returns to bolster the pace attack. The inclusion of Amir Jangoo as wicketkeeper is also on the cards.
  Likely XI: Kraigg Brathwaite (c), Mikyle Louis, Keacy Carty, Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Justin Greaves, Tevin Imlach/Amir Jangoo (wk), Gudakesh Motie, Kevin Sinclair, Jomel Warrican, Kemar Roach.

Conditions and Pitch Report
The pitch at Multan will be similar to the first Test, with significant cracks expected on day one. The cold and dry weather will further aid the spinners. Fast bowlers will likely have a limited role in the game, making it a trial by spin for both sides.

Stats and Trivia

• Pakistan’s last 62 Test wickets at home have all been taken by spinners.
• Pakistan has not won back-to-back Test series since February 2021.

Quotes from the Captains

• “Of course, we were right to prepare a spin pitch against West Indies. Their batters are not as proficient against spin compared to fast bowling.” – Aaqib Javed, Pakistan’s interim head coach.
• “I've played on surfaces that spun from day one, but this was the first time I've seen such cracks on a pitch on day one.” – Kraigg Brathwaite, West Indies captain.

Conclusion
As Pakistan looks to secure a clean sweep, the spotlight remains on the spin-friendly pitches that have divided opinion in the cricketing world. For West Indies, adapting to these conditions is their best chance to level the series. Will they rise to the occasion, or will Pakistan’s spinners dominate once again? All eyes are on Multan for what promises to be an intriguing contest.

Reference from:-https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/west-indies-in-pakistan-2024-25-1442208/pakistan-vs-west-indies-2nd-test-1442219/match-preview