Pakistan’s Test captain, Shan Masood, has voiced strong support for a two-tier Test system, seeing it as a promising opportunity to foster greater competition and provide more chances for lower-ranked teams in the World Test Championship (WTC). Ahead of Pakistan’s first Test against the West Indies in Multan, Masood emphasized the potential of such a system to create a dynamic environment where teams could be promoted or relegated, ensuring a more competitive structure for all sides.
Masood highlighted the importance of the upcoming two-match series, particularly for Pakistan’s goal of finishing the current WTC cycle on a positive note. With Pakistan having achieved a breakthrough home win against England in October, he expressed hope that the team could maintain its unbeaten record in home conditions. As Pakistan occupies the eighth spot in the current WTC cycle, the series against West Indies is seen as a pivotal opportunity to further solidify their standing.
The West Indies, also positioned near the bottom of the standings, are equally determined to improve their performance. Captain Kraigg Brathwaite emphasized that the series was crucial for the team to begin the year on a strong note. Brathwaite also expressed confidence in his players’ ability to tackle Pakistan’s spin attack, led by Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, who were instrumental in their victory over England.
To prepare for the series, Pakistan used innovative techniques like industrial fans and patio heaters to dry the pitch in Multan after heavy rains, ensuring conditions suited their team. The second Test will also take place in Multan starting on January 25. In their pre-series practice match, West Indies showed resilience, with Alick Athanaze impressing with two half-centuries. However, they will be missing pace bowler Kemar Roach due to illness.
