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Another spin-friendly track in Multan awaits West Indies team

Abdul Mohi Shah
Thursday, Jan 16, 2025

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s cricket management is setting the stage for a spin-heavy contest in the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies in Multan starting with the opening match from tomorrow (Friday), replicating the conditions that led to their emphatic 152-run victory over England at the same venue in October 2024.

Sources within the pitch preparation unit have told The News that curators have been instructed to recreate the dry and spin-friendly surfaces that proved instrumental in Pakistan’s success against England.

“We started preparations last week as per the same guidelines used for the last two Tests against England,” said an official involved in the process.

The pitch for the opening Test, starting January 17, is undergoing meticulous preparations under challenging winter conditions. To ensure optimal dryness and spin-favoring characteristics, heaters and fans are being used.

“It’s not easy to dry the surface to the required level during the cold weather. However, we are using advanced methods to make it conducive to spin, similar to the pitch behavior during the Multan Test against England,” the official added.

A dry surface, expected to break up and aid spinners as the game progresses, will likely neutralize the role of pacers. This spin-friendly wicket is anticipated to shape the series, with Pakistan relying on the proven duo of Sajid Khan and Noman Ali, who took all 20 wickets in the Multan victory against England.

For West Indies, their spin trio of Gudakesh Motie, Jomel Warrican, and Kevin Sinclair will be pivotal in countering Pakistan’s spin dominance. The series, crucial for both the teams to avoid the wooden spoon in the ICC World Test Championship, promises to be a fierce battle of spin mastery.

Pakistan’s strategic approach reflects their intent to capitalize on home advantage, setting the stage for a thrilling contest in Multan.