In the first Test Match between Pakistan and West Indies At the Multan Cricket Ground, a series of unfortunate events unfolded leaving fans and players in disbelief. Day 2 saw Pakistan in a precarious position, having lost four quick wickets, putting West Indies firmly in the driving seat. The day started with high hopes Mohamed Rizwan and Saud Shakeelwho had previously created a valuable collaboration. However, the unfolding drama would soon overshadow their efforts.
The rise and fall of Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel
On Day 1, Rizwan and Shakeel revitalized Pakistan’s innings after a dismal start, contributing significantly to a 141-run stand for the fifth wicket. Their partnership was crucial in taking Pakistan from a precarious 46-4 to a more respectable score of 143-4 at the start of Day 2. Rizwan, who scored a commendable 71 runs off 133 balls with nine boundaries, looked set to anchor the innings. further. However, as the day progressed, it became clear that the West Indies spinners were beginning to dominate the pitching conditions, leading to a dramatic collapse of Pakistan’s batting line-up.
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The comical confusion between Rizwan and Noman Ali
The highlight (and lowlight) of Rizwan’s innings came during a strange incident that resulted in Noman AliIt’s over. In the 62nd over, Rizwan played a defensive shot towards cover and instinctively called for a quick single. However, when he hesitated and finally rejected the race, Noman found himself stranded in the middle of the field. The confusion left Noman no choice but to attempt a desperate retreat, but he quickly failed to score. This moment of confusion not only cost Pakistan a wicket but also showed the mounting pressure on the players as they battled the West Indies’ spin attack.
Rizwan backs away, but Noman couldn’t turn fast enough and is left with nothing! A sudden collapse after the brilliant partnership between Saud and Rizwan. Pakistan are now reeling at 200/7.#POST #RedBallRumble #MenInMaroon #Cricket #Multan #MohammadRizwan pic.twitter.com/1zsNoMKi9F
– lightning speed (@lightningspeedk) January 18, 2025
Clearly, it was Rizwan’s mistake; It was Rizwan’s decision.#PAKvsWI pic.twitter.com/YLBJiG0gez
— Syed Muhammad Hassan (@SHassaan1589) January 18, 2025
Rizwan loses concentration and returns to the pavilion.
Moments after this comical confusion, Rizwan faced Kevin Sinclair‘s delivery and attempted an ambitious reverse sweep. Unfortunately for him, he missed the line completely and was awarded the leg before wicket (LBW). Despite opting for a review in the hope of overturning the decision, replays confirmed his fate with three red lights flashing on the screen. Rizwan’s departure marked a major turning point as Pakistan fell from 200-4 to being out of contention for just 230 runs shortly before lunch.
Pakistan crumbled on day 2 after stable partnership
Pakistan’s batting woes continued as they lost their last six wickets for just 43 runs, showing their struggles against spin on a changing pitch. The team’s performance has raised concerns about its position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standingswhere they are currently ranked No. 8, just above the West Indies at No. 9. As both teams look to improve their rankings in this crucial series, Rizwan’s comical exit will likely be remembered as one of those moments that sums up the unpredictable nature . of cricket. Pakistan on Day 2 were bowled out for 230 following a collapse after Shakeel’s wicket.