Pakistan bounced back in style to defeat the West Indies by eight wickets in the second and final Test at Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad, on Wednesday, leveling the two-match series 1-1.
After suffering a 90-run defeat in the opening Test, Pakistan needed just 75 runs for victory after dismissing the hosts for 117 in their second innings on the fourth morning. Although Imam-ul-Haq and Azan Awais fell early, Abdullah Shafique and captain Babar Azam calmly guided the visitors home. Babar sealed the victory in emphatic fashion with back-to-back sixes off spinner Jomel Warrican.
Shafique Shines on Surprise Return
Abdullah Shafique was named Player of the Match after an outstanding unbeaten 160 in Pakistan’s first innings of 387. The opener was not originally part of the touring squad and was flown in as a replacement for the injured Shan Masood, making his performance even more remarkable.
Spinners Lead Pakistan’s Fightback
Pakistan’s spin attack proved decisive throughout the match. Sajid Khan, recalled after missing the first Test, finished with match figures of 8-117, while left-arm spinner Ali Usman claimed 6-119, including 4-39 in the second innings.
West Indies resumed the day on 103-6 but managed only 14 more runs before being bowled out. Kemar Roach fell for a duck, Justin Greaves was dismissed by Mohammad Ali, and Ali Usman wrapped up the innings by removing Shamar Joseph.
Historic Victory in Trinidad
The win marked Pakistan’s first Test victory at Queen’s Park Oval since 1977, ending a 49-year wait at the iconic venue. It also snapped Pakistan’s run of eight consecutive away Test defeats, a streak that began with their heavy loss to Australia in Perth in December 2023.
The result also mirrored Pakistan’s previous Test tour of the Caribbean in 2021, when they lost the opening Test before winning the second to draw the series 1-1. Their most recent Test series against the West Indies in Multan in January 2025 had also ended level.
With the victory, Pakistan leave the Caribbean with a hard-fought drawn series and renewed confidence after an impressive all-round performance led by Abdullah Shafique and their spin duo.