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PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad: Abdullah Shafique produced a composed unbeaten century while Babar Azam returned to form with a fluent half-century as Pakistan fought back strongly on the second day of the second and final Test against West Indies on Monday.
Replying to West Indies’ first-innings total of 344, Pakistan reached 266 for two at stumps, trailing by 78 runs with eight wickets in hand after Shafique and Babar put on a dominant third-wicket partnership.
Shafique was unbeaten on 107 at the close after facing 185 balls, while Babar made 86 before falling late in the day, ending a stand that swung the momentum firmly in Pakistan’s favour. Earlier, opener Azan Awais laid the platform with 55.
West Indies resumed the day on their overnight score and were bowled out for 344 in the morning session despite useful contributions from Justin Greaves, captain Roston Chase and Brandon King.
Pakistan’s bowlers shared the wickets to prevent the hosts from stretching their advantage before the visitors’ top order responded with disciplined batting on a surface that offered occasional assistance to the spinners.
Pakistan, who trail 1-0 in the two-match series after losing the opener, will look to build a first-innings lead on the third day with Shafique still at the crease and plenty of batting to come.
Summary Scores
West Indies 1st innings: 344 all out (105.4 overs)
Justin Greaves 73
Roston Chase 70
Brandon King 68
Kevlon Anderson 45
Sajid Khan 4-85
Pakistan 1st innings: 266-2 (66 overs)
Abdullah Shafique 107 not out;
Babar Azam 86 not out
Azan Awais 55
Pakistan trail by 78 runs with eight wickets in hand.
