Port of Spain: Pakistan's cricket team displayed a strong performance on the second day of the second Test against the West Indies, with Abdullah Shafique reaching his sixth Test century and captain Babar Azam nearing his first Test hundred in almost four years. The duo's unbroken partnership of 168 runs propelled Pakistan to 266/2 at the close of play, trailing by just 78 runs in the ICC World Test Championship match.
According to International Cricket Council, Pakistan's assistant coach Asad Shafiq expressed satisfaction with the team's response after a lackluster performance in the first Test. Shafiq praised the efforts of Shafique and Babar, highlighting the significance of their partnership. "The way Abdullah and Babar batted, and the partnership they built, was truly remarkable. That's exactly what we had been missing in the last two or three Test matches," Shafiq stated.
Shafique, who was not originally part of the squad, seized his chance following Abdullah Fazal's injury. His innings, consisting of 10 fours and two sixes, impressed Shafiq with the balance shown between attacking and defending. With Babar just 14 runs short of a century, Shafiq is optimistic about Pakistan's prospects. "Given the position we're in, if we bat well tomorrow, we can put ourselves in a commanding position," he commented, underscoring the potential to dictate the game's outcome.
The series, consisting of two matches, sees Pakistan aiming to level after a disappointing first Test. The second Test continues at Queen's Park Oval, with Pakistan in a favorable position to take control.