Kraigg Brathwaite praises young West Indies team after historic win in Pakistan

West Indies Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite hailed his team’s remarkable 120-run victory over Pakistan in Multan, marking their first win on Pakistani soil since 1990. The triumph not only leveled the two-match Test series but also showcased the resilience and adaptability of a relatively young squad in challenging conditions.

Brathwaite expressed immense pride in his team’s achievement, highlighting the historical significance of the win. He emphasized the team’s ability to adjust to the tough playing surface, especially in the second innings, where their bravery with the bat was a decisive factor. Brathwaite remarked that such experiences would prepare the team for success on better pitches in the future, fostering a mindset that could bring long-term benefits.

A standout figure in the series was Jomel Warrican, whose contributions with both bat and ball were instrumental in the victory. Brathwaite praised Warrican for his pivotal role in the game, particularly his lower-order batting alongside Gudakesh Motie in the first innings, which set the stage for the win. Warrican’s stellar bowling performance earned him 19 wickets in the series, along with the Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards. Brathwaite acknowledged Warrican’s consistency, noting his ability to rise to the occasion and solidify his place in the team.

The third day of the Test saw the West Indies spinners dominate, as Pakistan’s batting lineup faltered under pressure. Kevin Sinclair struck in the day’s opening over, dismissing Saud Shakeel with a sharply spinning delivery. Nightwatchman Kashif Ali followed shortly, trapped in front by Warrican, leaving Pakistan in a precarious position.

Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha offered some resistance with a 39-run partnership but were eventually undone by the relentless spin attack. Warrican broke through by dismissing Agha with a skidding delivery and later bowled Rizwan with a perfectly drifting ball that breached his defense. Gudakesh Motie and Warrican then cleaned up the tail, sealing the win as Pakistan collapsed for just 133 runs.

The victory ended a decades-long drought for the West Indies in Pakistan and underscored the potential of their young players. Brathwaite lauded his team’s grit and determination, emphasizing that this win was a testament to their ability to overcome adversity. The players celebrated passionately, with Warrican’s signature thigh-thumping gesture serving as a reminder of how the West Indies had outclassed their opponents in their own conditions.

With this historic win, the West Indies have demonstrated their growing strength and promise, setting a strong foundation for future success in Test cricket.