Pakistan eye strong start against West Indies in first Test

TAROUBA: Pakistan and the West Indies will lock horns in the opening match of their two-Test series on Saturday, with Pakistan captain Babar Azam expressing confidence in his side’s preparations ahead of the contest.

Speaking to the media before the match, Babar said the team had been preparing for the West Indies and England tours for the past two months and was fully ready for the challenge.

“Our preparation has been very good. The players have worked hard on their skills and fitness, and we will try to produce positive results,” the Pakistan skipper said.

Babar, who recently returned as Pakistan’s Test captain, said his confidence had been boosted by regaining the leadership role and that he would strive to make decisions that benefit the team.

“I have learned from my previous experience as captain and will try to make better decisions for Pakistan,” he said.

The captain also praised the balance of the squad, saying the combination of experienced and young players had strengthened the team ahead of the series.

Babar, however, expressed disappointment over the injury to batter Abdullah Fazal, who was ruled out after sustaining an injury during a practice session.

The two-match Test series will begin at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, with the second Test scheduled to be played in Port of Spain from August 2.