Kashif Ali Debut Aims High Score

Pakistan's vice-captain Saud Shakeel emphasizes the importance of batting with a big score mindset ahead of the second Test against West Indies in Multan, as the team looks to build on their 127-run victory in the series opener.

Kamran Ghulam showed Pakistan's readiness to face West Indies in a net practice session at the Multan Cricket Stadium. The team will focus on scoring big and improving their batting average, with Saud Shakeel highlighting the importance of playing on challenging pitches to improve player performance. West Indies batter Alick Athanaze praised Pakistan's bowlers, saying that Nauman Ali and Sajid Khan read the conditions and exploited them well in the first Test.

Pakistan's interim head coach Aaqib Javed has stated that they will continue to prepare surfaces that crackle in the winter heat, which Test captain Babar Azam also defends. The playing XI for the second Test includes pacer Kashif Ali, who will make his Test debut, replacing Khurram Shahzad. The home side retains their spin-heavy bowling attack featuring Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, and Abrar Ahmed.

The outcome of this test hinges on West Indies' execution and ability to adapt to the spin-friendly pitch, with Pakistan looking to continue their winning streak. West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite expressed concerns about the pitch, saying he's never seen a pitch break up so early. Alick Athanaze is expected to play a significant role for West Indies, following his impressive short stint in Mumbai.

With the second Test scheduled to begin on Saturday, Pakistan aims to secure a clean sweep over West Indies. The team is looking to build on their first Test win, while West Indies will aim to improve their performance and counter Pakistan's spin attack.