Fighting Century from Masood Fails to Rescue Pakistan as West Indies Go 155 Runs Ahead

Masood’s Century Not Enough as West Indies Extend Lead to 155

A fighting century from Shan Masood was not enough to keep Pakistan in control as West Indies gained the upper hand on the third day of the first Test, thanks to Justin Greaves’ career-best bowling figures and another outstanding spell from Mohammad Abbas.

At stumps on Monday at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, West Indies were 126 for 7 in their second innings, holding an overall lead of 155 runs with three wickets still in hand. Kemar Roach remained unbeaten on 5, while Shamar Joseph was not out on a quickfire 22 from just 13 deliveries.

Pakistan had resumed the day in a strong position on 199 for 3. Masood brought up his seventh Test century from 163 balls and eventually scored 109. However, his dismissal triggered a dramatic collapse.

From 244 for 4, Pakistan lost their last six wickets for only 38 runs and were bowled out for 282, surrendering a 29-run first-innings lead.

Justin Greaves was the standout performer for the hosts, claiming 5 for 27 to register his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Kemar Roach also made a valuable contribution with a crucial wicket.

West Indies then suffered an early setback in their second innings as Mohammad Abbas produced another superb spell with the new ball. The Pakistan pacer returned figures of 3 for 14 in 13 overs, dismissing Brandon King (5), Kavem Hodge (0) and later Justin Greaves (20).

Khurram Shahzad picked up two wickets, while Aamir Jamal claimed one. Brandon King, Kavem Hodge, Amir Jangoo, Shai Hope and captain Roston Chase all fell cheaply, though Tagenarine Chanderpaul offered resistance with a determined 35.

Late in the day, Shamar Joseph’s brisk 22 added valuable runs and, together with the unbeaten Roach, helped West Indies stretch their lead to 155 by stumps.

If the hosts can push their advantage close to the 200-run mark on the fourth day, Pakistan will face a daunting fourth-innings chase.