The West Indies find themselves in a perilous position at the close of play on day 2 of the first Test against Pakistan in Multan.

Pakistan, batting a second time, reached 109 for 3, extending their overall lead to 202 with seven wickets still in hand. Despite a valiant effort by Windies spinner Jomel Warrican, who claimed two key wickets, Pakistan’s captain Shan Masood led the charge to assert control on the match.

Warrican was the standout bowler for the West Indies, removing Muhammad Hurraira (29) and the dangerous Babar Azam (5) as Pakistan’s second innings crumbled under pressure. He finished with figures of 2 for 18, offering a glimmer of hope for the visitors. However, Masood’s gritty 52 and support from Kamran Ghulam (9) and Saud Shakeel (2) kept Pakistan’s lead growing steadily, making it clear the West Indies will need a monumental effort to claw their way back into the contest.

Earlier, the West Indies’ second innings was a nightmare. Having been bowled out for just 137 in response to Pakistan’s first innings score of 230, the visitors found themselves in deep trouble. They were quickly reduced to 66 for 8, with Noman Ali (5 for 39) and Sajid Khan (4 for 65) putting on a spin-bowling masterclass while taking a combined 9 wickets.

Jomel Warrican and Jayden Seales came together for a defiant 10th-wicket partnership, rescuing the West Indies from complete collapse. The pair added 46 runs, with Warrican contributing an unbeaten 31 and Seales adding 22. Gudakesh Motie, batting at number nine, was the next highest scorer with 19, but it wasn’t enough to stave off the relentless Pakistani spinners.

Earlier in the day, the West Indies bowlers made a spirited comeback. After resuming the morning session with Pakistan on 143 for 4, they quickly reduced the hosts to 156 for 8, taking four wickets for just 13 runs. This collapse was sparked by the breakthrough of the overnight 5th-wicket stand between Saud Shakeel (84) and Mohammad Rizwan (71). However, a defiant stand from Sajid Khan (18) and Khurram Shahzad (7) helped Pakistan to push their total to 230, with the West Indies having to settle for the consolation of a late wicket before lunch.

As the teams head into day 3, Pakistan look firmly in control, with a commanding lead and just three wickets remaining. The West Indies, in contrast, will need a monumental effort with both bat and ball to stay in the contest.