The first day of the second Test between Pakistan and West Indies in Multan was a day dominated by spinners. A total of 20 wickets tumbled, with spinners claiming 16 of them. While this may seem like a thrilling spectacle for some, it has also drawn criticism from fans and experts alike.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, the West Indies were bundled out for 163 runs. Noman Ali finished with figures of 6-41, by becoming the first Pakistani spinner to claim a Test hat-trick, while Sajid Khan also picked up two wickets.  

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In response, Pakistan lost early wickets and were eventually bowled out for 154 runs. Jomel Warrican (4-43) and Gudakesh Motie (3-49) were the main destroyers for the visitors.  

The pitch at Multan has been heavily criticized for its extreme nature, offering excessive assistance to spinners from the very first ball. This has resulted in a lopsided contest, where batsmen have struggled to cope with the sharp turn and unpredictable bounce.

‘Embarrassing cricket pitch’ – Fans slam Pakistan for unplayable Multan track as 20 wickets fall on Day 1 of 2nd Test against WI

Critics have called out the conditions in Multan, with one fan tweeting,

What an embarrassing cricket pitch again in Multan but Pakistan fans won’t accept it because they will probably win again.

— AA (@Ayushxa) January 25, 2025

Ameer Hamza Asif’s tweet highlights the thrilling and intense moments that unfolded in the match, referring to the game as “DRAMA, pure DRAMA,” emphasizing how exciting and unpredictable the day was.

Experience One-Day cricket in the Multan Test match between Pakistan vs WI

– 20 wickets taken
– A hat-trick for Noman Ali
– 10th wicket 50 for G. Motie
– M. Rizwan stumped on 49

DRAMA, pure DRAMA 👀#PAKvWI pic.twitter.com/7apA5s1KYQ

— Ameer Hamza Asif (@AmeerHamzaAsif) January 25, 2025

Bharath Ramaraj talks about the best time for a slow left arm spin bowlers to be in a test cricket:

Pakistan continue to go for the jugular with these decks. Two innings already over.

In modern times, with the Drs coming into play, this is the best time to be a SLA in Test cricket.

— Bharath Ramaraj (@Fancricket12) January 25, 2025

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Fan joking about Pakistan’s struggle with their own spin-friendly conditions:

Or banaw spin friendly pitches
Pakistan cricket team apni jaal mai khud hi phans gayi 😂#PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/EIPTQ579gn

— ЅᏦᎽ (@13hamdard) January 25, 2025