What Makes Abdullah Shafique’s Century Special?
News Desk
Oval: After a long wait for a defining Test innings, Abdullah Shafique has delivered a statement performance, guiding Pakistan into a strong position against West Indies with a composed unbeaten century at Queen’s Park Oval.
The right-handed opener struck 107 not out on day two of the second Test in Port of Spain, marking his sixth Test century and his first since 2024. His patient yet attacking knock placed Pakistan firmly in control as they closed the day on 266 for two, trailing West Indies by just 78 runs.
Shafique’s innings combined discipline with aggression, as he faced 185 deliveries and struck 10 fours and two sixes. After Pakistan lost Imam-ul-Haq early and Azan Awais provided momentum with a quickfire 55, Shafique took charge of the innings and anchored Pakistan’s response against a disciplined West Indies attack.
Match-Defining Partnership
The turning point came when Shafique joined forces with captain Babar Azam. The pair produced an unbeaten 168-run stand for the third wicket, mixing solid defence with controlled stroke play to shift the momentum decisively towards Pakistan.
While Shafique provided stability from one end, Babar played with confidence and fluency, reaching 86 not out and moving within 14 runs of another Test century.
Their partnership ensured Pakistan ended the second day in a commanding position after West Indies had earlier posted a competitive first-innings total of 344.
Pakistan Bowlers Complete West Indies Collapse
Earlier in the day, Pakistan wrapped up the West Indies innings after the hosts resumed at 239 for five. The visitors claimed the remaining five wickets for 105 runs.
Sajid Khan was Pakistan’s standout bowler, finishing with four wickets for 85 runs, while Mohammad Ali, Ubaid Shah and Ali Usman contributed two wickets each.
For West Indies, Justin Greaves added 73 while captain Roston Chase scored 70 before Pakistan’s bowlers ended the innings.
A Timely Reminder of Shafique’s Class
Shafique’s century comes at a crucial moment for Pakistan’s Test campaign, providing the team with the kind of reliable top-order performance needed in challenging overseas conditions.
His ability to absorb pressure, build partnerships and accelerate when opportunities arrived highlighted the qualities that made him a key part of Pakistan’s Test plans.
With Pakistan now holding the advantage and Shafique unbeaten at the crease alongside Babar, the third day promises another opportunity for the pair to extend their dominance and push Pakistan towards a possible first-innings lead.
