ISLAMABAD — The much-anticipated three-day tour match between the West Indies and the Pakistan Shaheens, held at the Islamabad Club Ground, concluded in a predictable draw on Sunday.
Despite their valiant efforts, both teams were unable to secure a decisive victory, though individual performances shone brightly.
Alick Athanaze, following a solid 99 in the first innings, continued his impressive form with an elegant 58 in West Indies’ second innings. Tevin Imlach, who had remained steadfast at the crease, contributed a gritty 57, helping the visitors declare on a formidable 177 for five. This gave the Windies a substantial lead of 311 runs, but it was a lead that the Shaheens could not overcome.
Mohammad Musa Khan emerged as the Shaheens’ most successful bowler, claiming 2 wickets for just 5 runs. Ali Raza provided solid support with 2 for 32, but the Shaheens struggled to break through the solid West Indies middle order.
Athanaze pleased with team’s resilience
“The boys showed great resilience today,” said Athanaze, reflecting on his vital innings. “We built a solid lead and kept the pressure on throughout, but ultimately, we were happy to take the match in stride and prepare for the challenges ahead.”
Following the declaration, Mohammad Huraria played a blistering knock for the Shaheens, scoring a quickfire 80 off just 80 balls, offering brief resistance. Umar Bin Yousaf added 25 runs, and at the close of the match, Pakistan Shaheens had managed 128 for two, still trailing by 183 runs.
West Indies spinner Jomel Warrican was the standout performer with the ball in the final session, taking 2 wickets for 23 runs and providing the Windies with crucial breakthroughs. Despite these efforts, there was no time to finish off the Shaheens as the match concluded with both teams locked in a draw.
Earlier, Pakistan Shaheens had declared their first innings on 212 for 9, allowing the West Indies to edge ahead by 136 runs in the first innings, thanks to their resolute 346 for 8 declared.
