Pakistan produced one of their most complete overseas performances in recent years, defeating the West Indies by eight wickets in the second Test at Port of Spain to end a three-year wait for an away Test victory. The win also helped Babar Azam’s side level the two-match series 1-1 after losing the opener.
The result ended Pakistan’s eight-match away losing streak in Test cricket and marked their first overseas Test success since defeating Sri Lanka in 2023. It also provided a timely boost ahead of a challenging three-Test tour of England later this month.
Pakistan away Test victory built on discipline
The foundation of the Pakistan away Test victory was laid by Abdullah Shafique, whose unbeaten 160 in the first innings gave the visitors a crucial advantage.
His innings helped Pakistan secure a 43-run first-innings lead and made him the first Pakistan batter since 1977 to score 150 or more in a Test innings in the West Indies. Shafique’s patience and shot selection allowed Pakistan to recover from early pressure and seize control of the match.
Pakistan’s bowlers then ensured the advantage was not wasted.
Spinners dominate the West Indies
Off-spinner Sajid Khan and left-arm spinner Ali Usman played decisive roles as the West Indies struggled against disciplined spin bowling.
Sajid claimed four wickets in the second innings, while Ali Usman wrapped up the lower order as the hosts failed to build a defendable target. Pakistan’s bowlers consistently attacked the stumps and forced errors from the West Indies batters.
The performance highlighted Pakistan’s growing confidence in spin-friendly conditions and demonstrated the value of sustained pressure rather than relying on individual brilliance.
Comfortable chase seals the result
Set just 75 runs to win, Pakistan completed the chase with eight wickets in hand.
Captain Babar Azam remained unbeaten and finished the match in emphatic fashion by hitting consecutive sixes. Abdullah Shafique stayed composed at the other end to complete a memorable match that earned him the Player of the Match award.
The straightforward chase reflected Pakistan’s dominance during the final stages of the Test.
Why the win matters
The Pakistan away Test victory carries significance beyond the series result.Pakistan had endured criticism for their performances outside Asia, particularly after a string of defeats away from home.
Winning in Caribbean conditions provides renewed confidence and suggests the side is becoming more competitive on overseas tours.The victory also prevented a series defeat after Pakistan lost the opening Test by 90 runs.
Recovering to draw the series demonstrated resilience and improved execution under pressure.
Babar Azam’s leadership under the spotlight
The victory was also an important moment for captain Babar Azam.
After returning to the Test captaincy, Babar faced immediate pressure following the defeat in the first Test. His team responded with disciplined batting, effective bowling plans and calm execution during key sessions.
While Shafique produced the standout individual performance, Pakistan’s success reflected a collective effort across four days of cricket.
What comes next?
Pakistan now turn their attention to a three-Test series in England, beginning on August 19 in Leeds. The England tour will provide a much sterner examination of the team’s progress, particularly in pace-friendly conditions.
For the West Indies, the series again exposed familiar batting problems despite winning the opening Test. Converting promising positions into consistent performances remains a challenge.For Pakistan, the victory offers more than a statistical milestone.
It ends a long wait for success away from home, restores confidence before a major overseas assignment and gives the team momentum as the new World Test Championship cycle continues.
Curated news reports, in-depth analysis, and special features by India’s Opinion editorial team.
