Unbeaten record on the line
It is undeniable that the UAE has become a fortress for Pakistan ever since their international cricket shifted to the Emirates. They have not lost a series here and in Abu Dhabi, where the second Test heads, they have the best record out of the three Test stadiums. They are unbeaten in eight Tests in the capital city and have won half of those. West Indies will need to pull something special out the bag.
Can Windies follow Bravo?
Darren Bravo was the star man in Dubai for West Indies, his 87 in the first innings was invaluable, his 116 in the second al- most match winning. He laid a blueprint for batting in the UAE, playing straight, late and with a cautious approach that so often rewards those willing to build an innings of real substance. If West Indies batsmen can take a leaf out of his book then they have every chance.
Zul over Nawaz?
Mohammad Nawaz’s four wickets on debut was no mean feat, but only Bravo in the first innings was a batsman of real pedigree. He was preferred to Zulfiqar Babar to add depth to the batting but the experience of Babar would have been of real value in Dubai and will surely be in Abu Dhabi. Pakistan should feel confident that their top-six are more than capable of countering the Windies attack, Babar’s bowling a far greater asset that Nawaz.
Tourists need an Angel Gabriel
Shannon Gabriel bowled a whopping 10 no-balls in the first innings, with many going uncalled by the on-field umpire until his TV colleague got in his ear and made him more watchful. Some were embarrassing, Gabriel overstepping with the same gumption as certain quarters in Lord’s back in 2010. This is by no means a suggestion Gabriel is up to anything dodgy, but he lost his run-up on a number of occasions. Windies cannot afford to be so sloppy.
Azhar can repeat historics
Azhar Ali’s triple century ended up being invaluable and his side will know that if he can go big again, then they will unlikely be troubled. He was effortless, untroubled and showed an appetite for runs that the greats do. If Pakistan bat first then expect him to go again, such is the impotency of this West Indies new- ball attack and with little assistance to Devendra Bishoo early on, he can cash in once again.