Multan Weather Affects Cricket

The first Test between Pakistan and West Indies is set to begin on Friday in Multan, with both teams looking to improve their ranking in the World Test Championship. The match will be played in unseasonably cold conditions, with temperatures expected to be around 10-12°C, which is likely to contribute to turn-producing conditions favoring spin bowling.

Pakistan's captain Shan Masood expressed his team's desire to win and build a winning mindset for the future, while West Indies' captain Kraigg Brathwaite emphasized the importance of starting the year strongly. Pakistan has included young batter Mohammad Hurraira in their playing XI, while West Indies will be without pace spearhead Kemar Roach due to illness. The teams will play two Tests in Multan, with the second match scheduled to begin on January 25.

The Multan pitch has produced relatively high scores in the past, with over 1400 runs scored in a previous Test. Pakistan's approach will be to replicate the pitch conditions that worked against England, with the aim of creating turn from the outset. The cold Multan weather is expected to contribute to this, making it a challenging task for the West Indies team. West Indies' spin attack is likely to be a key contributor to their chances, with Gudakesh Motie being a notable threat.

The series is crucial for both teams as they look to regain momentum and improve their ranking in the World Test Championship. Pakistan's batting lineup will have several changes, with Saud Shakeel expected to make a difference in these conditions. The West Indies are aware of the need to change their performance, having finished at the bottom of the standings, and will be looking to make a strong start to the year.