Babar Azam Leads Pakistan Warm‑up Win with Century

Day 1 Highlights: Babar’s Captaincy Return

Pakistan kicked off their tour of the Caribbean with a dominant display, thanks to an unbeaten hundred from new Test skipper Babar Azam. The right‑hander crafted 100 runs from 151 balls, polishing his innings with 12 fours and a single six before retiring out. His effort anchored the innings as Pakistan compiled 455 for four wickets on the opening day. Azan Awais provided early stability with a patient hundred, while Imam‑ul‑Haq flickered for just 10 before falling. Shan Masood, now playing under his successor, added a fluent 70, showing the depth of the batting line‑up.

West Indies fielded nine bowlers and found modest success, with Ryan Bandoo delivering the best figures of two wickets for 86 runs. The hosts struggled to make early inroads, allowing Pakistan to post a formidable total before the series‑opening Test. Babar’s century not only marked his return to the captaincy but also set a positive tone for the two‑match series ahead.

Pakistan’s Overall Performance

The batting order settled quickly after an initial wobble, with Azan Awais becoming the anchor and posting a century before retiring hurt. Imam‑ul‑Haq’s early dismissal for 10 removed an opportunity for further momentum, yet the middle order responded solid. Shan Masood’s 70 in the middle provided crucial runs, while the lower order stayed unbeaten. The final total of 455 for four reflected both aggression and patience from the Pakistani batsmen.

Babar Azam’s unbeaten knock of 100 arrived after a steady accumulation of 151 deliveries, mixing stern defence with selective aggression. The innings was highlighted by 12 crisp fours and a solitary lofted six, underscoring his adaptability to various bowling plans. Pakistan’s total set a challenging target for the West Indies Select XI and signalled the form they aim to carry into the upcoming Tests.

West Indies’ Bowling Efforts

Determined to limit Pakistan’s score, the West Indies side unleashed nine different bowlers across the day. Among them, Ryan Bandoo emerged with the most rewarding figures of two wickets for 86 runs. Despite the bulk of the runs being consolidated early, the bowling unit showed resilience and kept the pressure on the batting side. Their performance hinted at the competitive nature they intend to bring in the two‑Test series.

The bowlers varied their approach, mixing short deliveries with disciplined line and length, yet the Pakistani top order proved adept at nullifying immediate threats. With the match ending on a positive note for Pakistan, both sides now have a clear picture of each other’s strengths heading into the tournament.

Context for Babar’s Second Captaincy

Babar Azam’s appointment replaces Shan Masood, who was controversially dropped from the Test setup before this tour. The previous spell of captaincy from 2020 to 2023 saw Babar guiding Pakistan to ten wins in 20 matches, losing just six and maintaining a batting average above 50. Series victories over South Africa, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka highlighted his success behind the wheel. This stint, however, begins with an intimidating challenge in the form of a resurgent West Indies side.

The Caribbean outfit has been in top form, having dismantled Sri Lanka in their last series with an innings triumph by 217 runs in the second Test. Following that, Pakistan face a three‑match series in England, their first tour there in six years, before a gruelling home schedule against New Zealand and Sri Lanka. The packed calendar makes Babar’s leadership role pivotal, demanding careful planning and player management.

Full Test Schedule

The upcoming two‑match Test series will be staged at two iconic venues, offering varied conditions for the touring side. Below is the complete itinerary for Pakistan’s tour of the West Indies.

The warm‑up win gives Pakistan a solid platform as they head into the Test series, but the real challenge lies in the upcoming fixtures across the Caribbean, England and back home. Babar’s leadership will be tested by a demanding schedule and opponents polishing their own forms. Fans can expect high‑stakes cricket as Pakistan aim to build on this promising start and add new chapters to their captain’s tenure.