Shafique breaks 49-year drought as Pakistan take control Abdullah Shafique etched his name into Pakistan cricket history by becoming the first player from the nation to score over 150 runs in a Test match against the West Indies in the Caribbean since Majid Khan’s 167 in Guyana in 1977. His unbeaten 160* helped Pakistan post a commanding total of 387 in the first innings, giving them a 43-run lead over the hosts in the second ICC World Test Championship match at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad. The performance marked a pivotal moment in the two-Test series, as Pakistan sought to level the contest after a 90-run defeat in the opener. Shafique’s innings was characterized by fluidity and aggression, with the right-handed batsman hitting 15 fours and three sixes to dominate the West Indies attack. His achievement placed him among the elite group of Pakistan batters to score over 150 in the region, joining the ranks of Hanif Mohammad (1958), Wazir Mohammad (1958), Majid Khan (1977), and Saeed Ahmed (1958) in the historical table. The innings not only showcased his individual brilliance but also provided Pakistan with a platform to build a strong foundation for the second innings. The West Indies struggled to respond, with their bowlers failing to contain the Pakistan middle order. Sajid Khan played a crucial role in restricting the hosts, claiming four wickets to reduce the West Indies to 103/6 at the close of the third day. The collapse left the Caribbean side reeling, with their top order unable to capitalize on the early opportunities. Despite the setback, West Indies fast bowler Jomel Warrican chipped in with a disciplined performance, taking 6/112 to keep Pakistan’s batting intact.#pakistan #west_indies #icc_world_test_championship #abduallah_shafique #queen_s_park_oval
