On a pivotal third day of the second and final Test match in Trinidad, Pakistan's spinners put their team in a commanding position to level the series against the West Indies. The home side found themselves in a precarious situation, finishing the day at 103 for six, with a lead of only 60 runs after Pakistan posted a first-innings total of 387.
Abdullah Shafique was the standout performer for Pakistan, remaining unbeaten on 160 runs. His impressive innings ensured that the visitors capitalized on a solid overnight foundation. However, the day was marked by a dramatic collapse in Pakistan's batting, as they lost their last eight wickets for just 106 runs, a significant downturn after starting the day at a comfortable 266 for two.
Sajid Khan emerged as a key figure for Pakistan with the ball, claiming four wickets in the West Indies' second innings, while Ali Usman contributed with two crucial dismissals, including that of West Indies captain Roston Chase, who was caught and bowled off the final ball of the day. This left the West Indies in a vulnerable position as they headed into the fourth day.
Justin Greaves, the West Indies' top scorer in the first innings, will need to lead the charge for his team in the morning, especially with uncertainty surrounding the fitness of regular opener Brandon King, who was stretchered off the field earlier in the day due to back spasms after a direct hit run-out of Babar Azam.
The pitch conditions played a significant role in the day's events, with sharp turn and variable bounce creating challenges for the batsmen. West Indies left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican showcased his skills, reminiscent of his previous performances against Pakistan, taking six wickets for 112 runs. His ability to wrap up the Pakistan innings just before tea with three wickets in four balls highlighted his effectiveness on the deteriorating surface.
Pakistan's captain Babar Azam, who had been looking to secure his first Test century in nearly four years, faced a disappointing day. After adding only a few runs to his overnight score of 86, he attempted a risky single that led to his run-out, a moment that shifted the momentum in favor of the West Indies. Babar's dismissal was met with joy from the West Indies players, but the celebration was short-lived as they quickly became concerned for King's health.
As the day progressed, the West Indies bowlers capitalized on the opening created by Babar's exit. Khan and Shafique managed to stabilize the innings temporarily, putting on a 59-run partnership for the seventh wicket before Khan fell to Jayden Seales. With the tail exposed, Warrican quickly dismantled the lower order, leaving Pakistan to reflect on missed opportunities for a larger lead.
Warrican's performance was praised by West Indies bowling coach Ravi Rampaul, who noted the spinner's excellence throughout the day. Rampaul emphasized the importance of extending their lead to 150 runs, which he believes would give the West Indies a fighting chance in the match.
As the teams prepare for the final day, the West Indies will need to muster a strong batting display to avoid defeat, while Pakistan's spinners will look to capitalize on the challenging conditions to secure a series-leveling victory.
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