Pakistan managed to recover from shaky start against West Indies on Day 1 of the first Test at the Multan Cricket Stadium on January 17. Both Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel came up with crucial half-centuries to rescue Pakistan when the chips were down. Pakistan ended the day at 143 for four in 41.3 overs, recovering from a shaky start after being reduced to 46/4 on a foggy day. Shakeel and Rizwan forged an unbeaten 97-run partnership for the fifth wicket to steady Pakistan's boat. For the visitors, Jayden Seales starred with the ball on the opening day as he picked three wickets while conceding 21 runs in his spell of 10 overs.
Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel fifties revive Pakistan's innings
The start of play was delayed due to dense fog, resulting in the cancellation of the entire pre-lunch session. After electing to bat first, Pakistan struggled against the early onslaught from Seales, who quickly rattled the top order. Seales struck first, dismissing Muhammad Hurraira in his maiden Test appearance for a score of six runs off 15 balls.
Seales didn't stop there and continued his impressive spell, trapping Kamran Ghulam (5) leg-before wicket. Ghulam also failed to reach double figures, scoring only five runs. Seales further dented Pakistan's top order by dismissing Babar Azam (8). Babar edged the ball to Tevin Imlach, and although he opted for the Decision Review System (DRS), replays confirmed a clear spike as the ball passed the bat, upholding the on-field umpire's decision.
The dismissals continued as Pakistan captain Shan Masood (11), fresh from his century against South Africa in the New Year's Test, fell victim to left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie (1/45). With the top order crumbling, Shakeel (56 off 100*) and Rizwan (51 off 80) steadied the ship for Pakistan, stitching an instrumental partnership to revive their their team from a perilous spot.
Saud Shakeel remained unbeaten on 56 runs from 100 balls, riding on four boundaries. Meanwhile, Mohammad Rizwan contributed with an unbeaten 51 runs off 80 deliveries which was decorated with seven fours. Play on the opening day was brought to an abrupt halt due to deteriorating light conditions, preventing any further progress.