Although the opening day of a Test match rarely tells the full story, Pakistan's decision to leave out Mohammad Abbas in the second Test against West Indies already looks like a costly mistake.
After claiming eight wickets across both innings in the first Test, Abbas was surprisingly left out of Pakistan's playing XI for the series-deciding second Test in Port of Spain. The decision proved beneficial for the hosts, who finished the opening day in a commanding position at 239/5, ending the day with plenty of confidence.
Pakistan made four changes to their lineup for the decisive Test, but the biggest surprise was Abbas' omission. Captain Babar Azam defended the move, saying it was made because of the playing conditions. However, the explanation was met with widespread criticism, with many fans mocking the decision. Former Pakistan cricketer Bazid Khan also strongly questioned the team management's call.
After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, West Indies got off to an aggressive start. Brandon King and Tagenarine Chanderpaul attacked the Pakistani bowlers from the outset, scoring at a pace more commonly seen in one-day cricket.
King's entertaining knock ended on 46 off 50 balls, while Chanderpaul was trapped lbw by spinner Ali Usman. Kavem Hodge added 10 runs before falling to Sajid Khan.
Obaid Shah celebrated the first wicket of his Test career by dismissing Amir Jangoo for 26. Soon after, Mohammad Ali bowled Shai Hope for 29, leaving West Indies at 173/5.
From there, however, Pakistan failed to make further breakthroughs. Justin Greaves and Roston Chase steadied the innings with an unbeaten partnership, guiding the hosts safely to stumps at 239/5 after 84 overs.
Greaves remained unbeaten on 64 from 125 balls, while Chase was not out on 36 off 70 deliveries, putting West Indies firmly in control at the end of Day 1.
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