Despite finishing last in the World Test Championship, Pakistan and the West Indies promised a strong finish when they play each other in the first Test on Friday in Multan.
As of right now, Pakistan is ranked eighth in the 2023–25 WTC cycle, considerably behind finalists South Africa and Australia.
The two-test series is important for Pakistan, who placed sixth and seventh in the first two WTC cycles, according to captain Shan Masood.
“This cycle is coming to an end, so this series is important for us because we want to improve as a team by going undefeated at home,” he said to reporters on Thursday.
Despite a 2-0 loss in South Africa this month, Masood wants his team to continue winning at home after Pakistan defeated England 2-1 in October to snap an 11-match losing streak in home Test matches.
Masood stated, “It will be crucial that we maintain that momentum against the West Indies because we won against England.”
In both of their previous WTCs, West Indies finished seventh, and captain Kraigg Brathwaite wants to finish strong this time.
Brathwaite stated, “We want to start the year strong and that is our focus. I think this series is very important with two Tests left in this cycle.”
He claimed that his team is prepared for Pakistan’s spin attack, which was spearheaded by Sajid Khan and Noman Ali, who combined for 39 wickets against England.
Brathwaite stated, “You have to be disciplined and brave against any bowler because we have played in spin conditions in Bangladesh and these conditions are similar.”
After intense rain, Pakistan used patio heaters and industrial fans to dry off the Multan field and win the series against England.
Since the second Test will also be held at Multan starting on January 25, they are prepared to employ the same strategy once more if necessary.
In a previous three-day practice match in Islamabad, where Alick Athanaze hit half-centuries in both innings and rookie Amir Jangoo scored an undefeated 63, the tourists got a taste of those conditions.
In that game, the West Indies employed a three-pronged spin attack consisting of Kevin Sinclair, Jomel Warrican, and Gudakesh Motie. However, they will be without their injured pace leader, Kemar Roach.
Joshua Da Silva, a batsman and wicketkeeper, was not included.
Split test
Owners of titles In June, South Africa and Australia will square off in the championship final at Lord’s.
WTC bottom-dwellers like Pakistan and the West Indies, however, should be cautious of rumors that top countries like India, Australia, and England support a two-tiered promotion and relegation system.
Lower-ranked teams could not be able to play Test matches against elite countries as a result of that approach.
“It must be thrilling if there is a two-tier system,” Masood stated. “Teams should be promoted and demoted, and each team should receive more tests.”
“Test cricket is something we want more and more.” The fact that most nations only play four to five Test matches annually is a setback, and it hurts.
