Dharuba: Right-arm pacer Mohammad Ali hailed former skipper Shan Masood for his positive intent after losing a wicket early on as the left-arm batsman set the tone for Pakistan’s fightback in the opening Test against the West Indies.
Speaking at the press conference after the second day’s play at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Ali said Masood’s aggressive approach swung the momentum in Pakistan’s favor and provided a better platform for the visitors’ innings.
“When we lost an early wicket, he came out with the right intention and played with complete freedom. He scored runs quickly and really set the tone for our team in that first session,” Ali said.
The right-arm pacer described Masood’s innings as a crucial contribution that put Pakistan firmly in the chase of the West Indies’ first innings score.
“His 85 today put us on the right track. It was an important innings that put us in a strong position,” he added.
Ali further emphasized the importance of the third day, hoping that it would be the decisive phase of the Test match and another solid partnership would put Pakistan in a commanding position.
“I think the third day of this Test match is the most important day because the third day decides which team will win the match,” Ali remarked.
“We need to build a good partnership. If we score 70 or 80 runs, I think we will be on the right track,” he added.
Meanwhile, Shaun Masood and Imam-ul-Haq scored resilient fifties to frustrate the West Indies bowlers, leading Pakistan to 199-3 at the close of play on the second day of the first Test on Sunday.
Pakistan resumed their first innings on day three with Shaun unbeaten on 88 off 137 balls, including 11 fours, trailing by 112 runs. Salman Ali Agha has not scored a run after facing nine balls.
A 155-run partnership between Imam and Shan was eventually broken when Shamar Joseph dismissed Imam for a 102-ball 63 with seven boundaries as Pakistan posted 156-2 in 33.3 overs.
Earlier, West Indies were bowled out for 311 in 98.5 overs, thanks to a battle of half-centuries from Kevlan Hodge and wicketkeeper-batsman Shai Hope.
Hope scored a fluent 92 off 182 balls with 6 fours and a six, while Hodge scored 84 off 183 balls including 9 fours. Shamar Joseph scored 23 runs off 13 balls with 4 fours and a six.
Mohammad Ali led Pakistan’s bowling with impressive figures of 4/50 in 21.5 overs.
Mohammad Abbas 3/65, Khurram Shahzad 2 wickets, Amir Jamal 1 wicket, Pakistan’s restrained pace attack prevented the players from increasing the first innings score.