'We were quite surprised' - Shan Masood credits spinners after pipping West Indies in first Test

Pakistan comfortably won the first Test against West Indies at the Multan Cricket Stadium on January 19. After winning the toss, the hosts put up 230 runs and restricted West Indies to just 137 runs on the back of spinners, Sajid Khan and Noman Ali’s four and fifer. They provided a target of 251 runs and the visitors again succumbed to the Pakistan’s spin trio.

They were bundled out for just 123 runs and Pakistan registered a handsome win by 127 runs. It is worth noting that, Pakistan fielded only one pacer in the form of Khurram Shahzad and all the 20 Windies wickets were plucked by the three spinners. After the win, Pakistan skipper, Shan Masood highlighted the very aspect and was ‘surprised’ to see ball turn from the start of the Test.

“As long as we get 20 wickets and we're able to put good performance, we'll be happy (with the pitches). It also helped with us adding Abrar as well. He bowled well along with Sajid and Noman. We didn't know if it was going to turn from ball one in this weather. We were quite surprised. A day before the game, we spoke that once a batter gets in, they have to go big. Rizzi (Rizwan) and Saud (Shakeel) did that. If we want to be one of the best sides in the world, there are a lot of things we can improve. When you win, it's easy to get on the high happy ride and be satisfied with it. But you're never satisfied,” said Masood.

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Important to be positive on these type of pitches: Kraigg Brathwaite

On the other hand, West Indies will be gutted with the sloppy start to the series. They were outdone in the batting department and only resistance came from the bowlers. Particularly, left-arm spinner, Jomel Warrican, picked 10 wickets across two innings. Skipper, Kraigg Brathwaite, while highlighting the efforts of Warrican, praised him for taking the pace off the ball while also terming Jayden Sealed ‘a star’ for crossing 300 Test wickets.

“We allowed them 50-60 runs too many in the first innings. We can take a lot from how Warrican bowled. He was the slowest out there. He brought the batters forward, which was important. We allowed back foot shots in the first innings. We also saw how Alick (Athanaze) played. Just have to believe in ourselves. Important to be positive on these type of pitches - looking to score always. It was spinning from Day 1. Jayden will be a legend for sure. 300 Test wickets, no doubt. One of the best I have seen a West Indies pacer bowl in the subcontinent. He's a star,” said Brathwaite.