Multan (Web desk): In a thrilling encounter in Multan, Pakistan triumphed by 127 runs, clinching the first Test against West Indies.
On a day dominated by the spinners, Sajid Khan was the star, taking five wickets for 50 runs, and finishing with match figures of 9-115.
His partner in the game, leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, impressed with 4-27, dismantling the West Indies batting line-up as they were bowled out for just 123 in pursuit of 251 runs.
The tourists struggled throughout their second innings, with only Alick Athanaze managing to offer some resistance, top-scoring with 55 runs. His efforts were not enough, as Sajid removed him in a crucial breakthrough. Abrar then wrapped things up with the final wicket, dismissing Jomel Warrican.
Earlier in the day, West Indies had managed to stifle Pakistan's batting attack, with Warrican playing a key role, claiming an impressive 7-32 in the home side's second innings. However, despite his career-best effort, it wasn't enough to stop Pakistan from taking control of the match.
The Multan pitch, providing sharp turn, played right into the hands of the Pakistani spinners, who made light work of the West Indies' challenge.
With the first Test now in the books, Pakistan will look to build on their momentum heading into the second match, which is set to begin on January 25 in the same venue.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have felicitated the national cricket team for its outstanding performance by winning the first test match of the two-match series against the West Indies.
In their separate statements, the president and the premier congratulated the cricket team and extended their best wishes to the nation for their remarkable achievement.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed his confidence that the team will continue to deliver excellent performances in the future.
PM Shehbaz specifically highlighted the exceptional performance of all the players, with particular praise for Sajid Khan's impressive contribution.
Meanwhile, in a post on social media platform X, Shehbaz Sharif extended his commendation to Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi and his entire team for their tireless efforts.
