West Indies Edge Pakistan on Rain‑Spattered Day One in Trinidad

Only 67 overs could be squeezed out of the first day at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Port of Spain, thanks to intermittent rain and a premature dusk. The West Indian side, looking a little shaky after losing early wickets, found a steadying force in middle‑order stalwart Kavem Hodge.

Hodge, undeterred by the damp outfield, camped at the crease for the entire session. He nudged his way to a composed 83 not out, his innings peppered with a few risky sweeps and a handful of elegant drives. Partnering him was Shai Hope, who added a useful 39*; together they forged an unbeaten 88‑run stand for the fourth wicket that rescued the home side from a precarious 13/1.

Pakistan’s start was not without drama. In the ninth over, fast bowler Mohammad Abbas broke the deadlock by removing Brandon King for just 12 runs. The early wicket sparked a brief surge, but the rain‑soaked pitch began to behave oddly, making scoring a chore.

After the lunch interval, the hosts rallied. While the ball behaved more sluggishly, Hodge’s temperament shone through. He kept the scoreboard ticking, rotating the strike and timing the occasional boundary that lifted the crowd’s spirits.

The visitors, under the newly reinstated captain Babar Azam, tried to counter. Imam‑ul‑Haq made a half‑century, pairing nicely with the skipper. Yet, a quick burst from Shamar Joseph and a wicket from Jayden Seales – who clean‑bowled Babar – kept the pressure on Pakistan. They finished the day at 199/3, still 112 runs behind the hosts.

Both teams entered the series languishing at the bottom of the World Test Championship table, each with a solitary win. The match, therefore, carried extra weight – a chance for either side to climb out of the doldrums.

Injuries also loomed large. Pakistan’s opener Abdullah Fazal missed the series with a lower‑back issue, while Alzarri Joseph sat out for personal reasons, prompting a three‑fast‑bowler attack featuring Kemar Roach, Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales. Jomel Warrican remained the specialist spinner, ready for any turn the damp surface might offer.

All in all, a day of cautious batting, occasional flashes of aggression and the ever‑present threat of rain. The contest promises more drama as the teams regroup for Day 2, hoping for clearer skies and a chance to build on today’s foundations.