Ubaid Shah’s Tough Test Debut in Trinidad

News Desk

Trinidad: Pakistan’s decision to hand young fast bowler Ubaid Shah his Test debut while leaving out experienced pacer Mohammad Abbas became the defining talking point of the opening day of the second Test against the West Indies.

The hosts ended the rain-interrupted first day in a strong position at Queen’s Park Oval, reaching 239 for 5 after captain Roston Chase opted to bat first. Despite Pakistan’s bowlers making early inroads, West Indies recovered through key partnerships, with Justin Greaves and Chase steadying the innings with an unbeaten 66-run stand for the sixth wicket.

All eyes, however, were on Pakistan’s reshaped bowling attack. The visitors made four changes to their playing XI after losing the first Test by 90 runs, but the exclusion of Mohammad Abbas raised the most questions.

Abbas had been Pakistan’s standout performer in the series opener, taking eight wickets in Tarouba, including his seventh five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Despite his impressive form, the 36-year-old was left out, with captain Babar Azam saying the decision was based on playing conditions rather than injury concerns.

The move brought 20-year-old Ubaid Shah into the spotlight as he earned his first Test cap. The young pacer endured a difficult start at the international level, conceding 56 runs from nine overs, but managed to claim his maiden Test wicket by dismissing opener Amir Jangoo for 26.

While Pakistan experimented with their attack, West Indies capitalised on the opportunity. Brandon King provided an aggressive start with a 50-ball 46, smashing nine boundaries before being dismissed by Ali Usman.

King later praised the contributions of Shai Hope, Greaves and Chase, saying the late partnerships had given West Indies the platform they needed to push towards a big first-innings total.

“It would be nice if we get more of the same from them tomorrow and Justin and Roston can go on to get hundreds,” King said at the close of play.

With Greaves unbeaten on 64 and Chase on 36, West Indies will look to extend their advantage on day two. Pakistan, meanwhile, face a crucial challenge: proving that their gamble on a younger bowling combination can deliver, or facing further questions over the decision to leave their most successful bowler out.