PORT OF SPAIN: Abdullah Shafique marked his return to Pakistan’s Test side with a superb unbeaten century as captain Babar Azam produced another composed innings to put the visitors firmly in control on the second day of the second Test against the West Indies at Queen’s Park Oval on Monday.
At stumps, Pakistan had reached 266-2 in 66 overs in reply to the hosts’ first-innings total of 344, reducing the deficit to just 78 runs with eight wickets still in hand.
Abdullah, playing his first Test since October 2025, remained unbeaten on 107 from 185 deliveries, striking 10 fours and two sixes. Captain Babar was equally assured, finishing the day on an unbeaten 86 from 126 balls, including 10 boundaries and a six.
The pair shared an unbroken 168-run partnership for the third wicket, frustrating the West Indies bowlers and shifting momentum decisively in Pakistan’s favour.
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Pakistan suffered an early setback when Imam-ul-Haq departed for 14 with the score on 34. However, Abdullah and young opener Azan Awais steadied the innings with a brisk 64-run stand before left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican trapped Awais leg-before for a well-made 55, an innings featuring 10 fours.
Babar then joined Abdullah and ensured Pakistan maintained the tempo, with the duo batting fluently through the remainder of the day without offering the hosts any opportunity.
Earlier, West Indies added 105 runs to their overnight score before being bowled out for 344. Justin Greaves top-scored with 73, while captain Roston Chase contributed 70 after the pair extended their overnight partnership.
Off-spinner Sajid Khan led Pakistan’s bowling effort with four wickets for 85 runs, while Mohammad Ali, Ali Usman and Ubaid Shah claimed two wickets each.
Pakistan will look to build a substantial first-innings lead on the third day as the series hangs in the balance.
