In the much-anticipated Pak vs WI today match, Pakistan is set to face the West Indies in the first Test of the two-match series at Multan Cricket Stadium.
The Green Shirts, led by Shan Masood, won the toss and opted to bat first in a game that began later than scheduled due to dense fog.
The toss, originally planned for 9 am, was delayed and finally held at 1 pm.
This series is crucial for Pakistan as they aim to wrap up their ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 campaign on a winning note.
The second Test is also scheduled at the same venue, starting January 25.
For the West Indies, this marks a historic return to Pakistan for Test cricket, their first since 2006. Back then, Pakistan triumphed with a 2-0 series win. The last Pak vs WI Test series was held in the Caribbean in 2021, ending in a 1-1 draw.
Both teams are well-prepared for the encounter. Pakistan’s squad includes uncapped players Kashif Ali, Mohammad Huraira, and Rohail Nazir, alongside seasoned bowlers Abrar Ahmed and Sajid Khan, who are nearing significant milestones in their Test careers.
The West Indies, under Kraigg Brathwaite’s leadership, have also been gearing up, participating in a three-day warm-up match against Pakistan Shaheens in Islamabad.
Shan Masood expressed confidence ahead of the series, stating, “This is our final Test series of the ICC cycle, and we are focused on ending it with a memorable victory.” Meanwhile, Brathwaite highlighted the importance of adapting to Pakistani conditions and emphasized the significance of taking 20 wickets to secure a win.
The Pak vs WI today match promises a thrilling start to the series as both sides battle it out to claim an early advantage in Multan.