Pakistan's eight-match losing streak in away Tests finally came to an end on Wednesday as they beat the West Indies by eight wickets in the second Test in Port of Spain.
The victory ended Pakistan's struggles overseas, with the team chasing down a target of 75 runs on the fourth morning. Captain Babar Azam and head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed's combination proved to be the turning point for Pakistan, who had gone through several changes in coaches, selectors, and captains since Babar stepped down from the role twice.
Pakistan's bowling effort in the second innings was impressive, with off-spinner Sajid Khan taking 4/32 and left-arm spinner Ali Usman claiming 4/39. The West Indies, who began the day on 106/3 with a lead of 60 runs, were unable to add much to their score. Ali Usman dismissed Kemar Roach and Shamar Joseph, while Justin Greaves added only two runs before playing Mohammad Ali's delivery back onto his stumps.
The West Indies were also without opener Brandon King in the second innings, who could not bat due to a back injury suffered on Day 3. Pakistan's win also changed the standings in the World Test Championship, with the team moving up to eighth place with 22.22% of points after two wins and four defeats in six matches.
Pakistan's previous away Test win had come under Babar Azam against Sri Lanka in 2023. However, since then, the team had struggled, losing 3-0 in Australia, 2-0 in South Africa, and 2-0 in Bangladesh under captain Shan Masood. Masood was removed as captain after Pakistan's poor run in Test cricket, with Babar returning to the role but the team still managing to lose their first Test against the West Indies in Tarouba.
The win is a significant boost for Pakistan, who had been struggling to find consistency in their away Tests. The team's victory in Port of Spain has given them renewed hope for the future, with captain Babar Azam and head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed's combination proving to be the key factor in their success.
The two-match series between Pakistan and the West Indies finished 1-1, with the West Indies winning the first Test by 90 runs. The West Indies dropped to ninth place in the World Test Championship standings with 20.83% of points after two wins in 12 matches.
Source: Yahoo Sports