Kraigg Brathwaite Reflects on Multan Test Defeat: “The Pitch Was Difficult to Bat On”

Pakistan outclassed West Indies with a commanding 127-run win in the first Test of the series at Multan. Pakistan’s spinners dominated the game, claiming all 20 wickets and setting a world record for consecutive home matches where spin has accounted for every dismissal. Sajid Khan’s incredible nine-wicket haul was the standout performance.

West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite acknowledged the challenge posed by the Multan pitch. “It was a difficult pitch to bat on for sure. But it’s their decision how they want the pitch. We’ve just got to come good.”, he said.

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Brathwaite expects similar conditions in the second Test and urged his team to adapt better. “We expect the same type of pitch. We’ve got to come better,” he added.

Brathwaite Praises Jomel Warrican

Despite the loss, Brathwaite lauded left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican for his efforts. Warrican claimed his maiden five-wicket haul, a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing game for the visitors.

“It’s great to see. Jomel has worked extremely hard over the years, and it’s good to see he got his first five-wicket haul. His hard work has paid off. He bowled well; he was consistent. I wish him all the best in the second Test,” Brathwaite said.

Calls for a Better All-Round Performance

Reflecting on the team’s overall performance, Brathwaite pointed out key areas for improvement. He felt the bowlers allowed too many runs in the first innings, given the spin-friendly conditions.

“We gave them 50-60 runs too much. The pitch spun from ball one, and we could’ve created more pressure on their batters. Saying that, we also didn’t bat as well as we could,” he admitted.

Brathwaite highlighted Alick Athanaze’s gritty fourth-innings knock of 55 as a model for better shot selection. “Alick showed us today how easy it can be. You’ve got to be braver in your shot selection. A better all-round performance, and we could win the second Test,” he added.

Pakistan’s Spin Trio Dominates

Pakistan’s spinners—Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, and Abrar Ahmed—ran riot, dismantling the West Indies batting lineup in both innings. Sajid Khan’s nine-wicket haul was instrumental in the victory, while his counterparts ensured relentless pressure throughout the match.

The win gives Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The team now heads into the second Test full of confidence, with their spinners in top form.

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