Rain Cuts Opening Session Short as Mohammad Abbas Strikes Early in Pakistan vs West Indies Test

Pakistan’s disciplined pace attack made an impressive start against West Indies before rain forced an early lunch on Day 1 of the Test match at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad.

Only 14.1 overs were possible in the opening session as poor weather interrupted play, leaving West Indies struggling at 23 for 1 after electing to bat first.

Mohammad Abbas Provides Early Breakthrough

Veteran fast bowler Mohammad Abbas led Pakistan’s attack with trademark accuracy and patience. Bowling a relentless fourth-stump line, Abbas kept the West Indies batters under constant pressure throughout the morning session.

His persistence paid off when opener Brandon King attempted an aggressive cut shot to break the shackles. The ball was too close to his body, resulting in an inside edge that crashed onto the stumps.

Abbas finished the session with figures of 1 for 8 from seven overs, including five maidens.

West Indies Struggle for Runs

Scoring proved extremely difficult on a surface offering subtle seam movement. Pakistan’s pace trio of Abbas, Khurram Shahzad, and Mohammad Ali maintained disciplined lines and lengths, giving away very few scoring opportunities.

At lunch, Tagenarine Chanderpaul was unbeaten on 5 after consuming 40 deliveries, highlighting the pressure applied by Pakistan’s bowlers. Alick Athanaze Hodge remained unbeaten on 5 at the other end.

The hosts managed just 23 runs from 14.1 overs, one of their slowest starts in recent Test cricket.

Pakistan Review Goes Unsuccessful

Pakistan came close to another breakthrough when Abbas struck Chanderpaul on the pads and appealed for lbw. The visitors opted for a review after the on-field decision went against them.

However, ball-tracking technology showed the delivery pitching marginally outside the leg stump, allowing Chanderpaul to survive.

Rain Brings Early Lunch in Trinidad

Although conditions were bright at the toss, dark clouds gathered over the venue during the latter stages of the session. Rain began falling shortly after the completion of the 14th over and quickly intensified, forcing players off the field.

Match officials subsequently called for an early lunch as ground staff covered the playing area.

Tribute to Sir Garfield Sobers

Before play began, both teams observed a minute’s silence in memory of legendary West Indies cricketer Sir Garfield Sobers, who passed away last week.

West Indies players and match officials also wore black armbands as a mark of respect for one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history.

With significant time lost to weather in the opening session, both teams will be hoping for improved conditions later in the day as the first Test continues in Trinidad.