Pakistan restrict West Indies to 311 in first Test

TAROUBA: Pakistan’s pace bowlers produced a disciplined performance to dismiss the West Indies for 311 on the opening day of the first Test, despite fighting knocks from the home side’s middle order.

After opting to bat, the West Indies recovered from early setbacks through valuable partnerships led by Shai Hope, who struck a patient 92 off 182 balls, and Kavem Hodge, whose well-crafted 84 from 183 deliveries helped stabilize the innings.

Earlier, Taogene Chanderpaul contributed 21, while Brandon King managed 12. Amir Jangoo added 21 and Justin Greaves scored 15 before Shamar Joseph remained unbeaten on 23 as the hosts were eventually bowled out in 98.5 overs.

Pakistan’s bowling attack shared the spoils, with Mohammad Ali emerging as the most successful bowler after returning impressive figures of 4-29 in 21.5 overs. Veteran pacer Mohammad Abbas provided excellent support, claiming 3-24 from a miserly 26-over spell.

Khurram Shahzad chipped in with two wickets, while spinner Ali Usman claimed one scalp. Although Amir Jamal remained wicketless, he maintained pressure with a sustained spell of 15 overs.

Pakistan will now look to capitalize on their strong bowling effort by posting a substantial first-innings total as the opening Test of the two-match series continues.