In a moment that caught the cricketing world by surprise, the West Indies men’s team pulled off a 120-run victory over Pakistan in Multan, leveling the two-Test series in emphatic fashion. Few expected such a turnaround, especially on a pitch that was tailored to Pakistan’s strengths, offering unpredictable bounce and vicious turn. Yet, against the odds, the visitors held their nerve, delivering a performance that showcased both grit and tactical discipline.
At the heart of this triumph was Jomel Warrican, whose brilliance with the ball and crucial lower-order runs earned him the Player of the Match and Series accolades. It was a statement performance from the 32-year-old, whose controlled bowling dismantled Pakistan’s batting lineup at key moments. Captain Kraigg Brathwaite, ever the steadying force, provided the leadership needed to rally his side after a demoralizing defeat in the first Test.
But while the victory in Multan is worth celebrating, it also raises a familiar question—can West Indies build on this success, or is this another isolated moment of excellence? Cricket in the region has long suffered from inconsistency, and past triumphs, like the stunning win over Australia in Brisbane last year, have failed to spark a lasting resurgence. Following that Brisbane high, the team stumbled, suffering heavy losses to England and South Africa, and managing only a drawn series against Bangladesh.
The broader picture of West Indies cricket remains complex. The men’s white-ball squad had flashes of promise in 2024, making it to the Super Eight at the Cricket World Cup but failing to capitalize on their momentum. The women’s team delivered strong performances in their latest tour of Bangladesh, yet concerns linger over the Under-19 program, with the junior women’s side enduring a disappointing World Cup campaign.
As Cricket West Indies transitions under the leadership of new CEO Chris Dehring, there is a growing demand for structure and consistency across all formats. The recently launched four-day championship—widely seen as the foundation of regional cricket—is expected to play a key role in identifying and nurturing emerging talent.
For now, the victory in Multan stands as a testament to the West Indies’ ability to rise to the occasion. But whether this marks the beginning of a sustained climb or just another short-lived spark remains to be seen.
