Pakistan v West Indies, 1st Test, Day 2: 5 Talking Points

If Day 1 of the first Pakistan v West Indies Test match was claimed by Pakistani vice-captain Azhar Ali, the second was a simple stamp of authority by the right-handed batsman. Azhar exhibited a bevy of class and poise as he went ahead and became only the fourth Pakistan batsman to score a triple-century in Test match cricket. Babar Azam also made his debut count as the home side went ahead and netted a massive total on the day. Needless to say, the West Indies simply had no answer to the onslaught from the batsmen.

Azhar Ali lights up Dubai with triple ton

The previous day had seen Azhar Ali smash 146 impressive runs. Although he would add 156 runs on the second day’s play, Azhar was batting well beyond his years. He seemed to have his head well and truly on top of his shoulders while he gave the West Indies bowlers simply no chance at getting his wicket. As mentioned earlier, Azhar Ali became the fourth Pakistani batsman to smash a triple century as he remained unbeaten on 302 at the close of the first innings.

Babar Azam sizzles on debut

Following a few impressive performances in the ODI series, Babar Azam was rewarded with a call-up to the Test side. The 21-year old Pakistani starlet did not cease to perform as he smashed 69 runs. What was more impressive was the simple fact that he looked completely at ease whilst showing immense maturity. He went ahead and batted with Azhar Ali right through the second session of play and helped himself to 69 runs to cap off an impressive debut.

Misbah-ul-Haq adds the finishing touches

It was unlikely whether skipper Misbah-ul-Haq would get the chance to bat or not. However with the fall of the wicket of Babar Azam and the absence of Younis Khan meant that the 42-year old would have to chance his arm. He made his way out and attempted a few massive shots, perhaps in tribute to the batsman he once was. In spite of just the one delivery reaching the fence, Misbah smashed a valiant 29 as Azhar reached his well-deserved 302 before the curtains were drawn up on the innings.

Also read – Twitter Reactions: Triple centurion Azhar Ali puts Pakistan in command on day 2

Yasir Shah begins with a bang

Yasir Shah had a tough time in England. He reached the world number one spot with some accurate bowling before being brought crashing back to earth courtesy of some torrid performances towards the end of the series. However, in Dubai Sports City, Yasir Shah is a different proposition altogether. His seven overs in the final session of the day yielded just 13 runs for the West Indies while Yasir picked up a wicket and conceded just 13 runs.

Kraigg Brathwaite remains a strong resistance

At the tender age of 23, Kraigg Brathwaite is the vice-captain of the West Indies Test team. The 23-year old impressed for the short stint at the crease into the night as he played a long and patient innings of 32. He successfully defended and patiently waited out the night in spite of the loss of the wicket of Leon Johnson. Darren Bravo also impressed with his short stay at the crease.

Also read – 13 Facts about Babar Azam – The young run machine from Pakistan