Magnificent score

Alick Athanaze fell just two runs short of a well-deserved century as the West Indies showed great power on the opening day of their three-day tour match against the Pakistan Shaheens.
The Caribbean side closed on 273 for 7 after 74 overs, with Athanaze contributing a magnificent 98.

After winning the toss, the West Indies began positively, but the Pakistan Shaheens struck early. Captain Kraigg Brathwaite was dismissed on 34, with the score at 47 for 1.
Keacy Carty followed with 22, and Mikyle Louis contributed 34, but their dismissals left the visitors at an uncertain 90 for 3. By lunch, the West Indies reached 115 for 3, with Kavem Hodge (16) and Athanaze (8) steadying the innings.
Athanaze compiled an elegant 74 off 108 balls in the second session, striking 13 boundaries.
However, other wickets continued to fall as Kavem Hodge added just one run after lunch before departing for 17, and Justin Greaves managed only 5. By tea, the West Indies were 202 for 5, with Tevin Imlach unbeaten on 12 and Athanaze holding the innings together.
Athanaze continued to dominate, making an impressive 98 off 148 deliveries, including 15 fours and a six. His dismissal, agonizingly short of a century, marked the turning point.
Amir Jangoo supported with an unbeaten 29, and Joshua Da Silva contributed with 11 not out.
Mohammad Rameez Jnr has so far taken three wickets for 40 runs, with Ahmed Abdullah claiming two for 91.
Meanwhile, assistant coach Jimmy Adams expressed satisfaction with the team’s readiness and praised the local facilities.
“The conditions are excellent for cricket. The weather here is good, as it is neither too cold nor too hot. The facilities they’ve provided have been excellent, with quality surfaces and enough practice bowlers. The players have had everything they need and have been putting in the time with great intensity.”
While this match is technically just a warm-up, Adams underscored its significance. “I wouldn’t use the word just. This game will provide invaluable middle time, which is critical as we head into the first Test.”
“This is an important part of the build-up. It’s about getting quality time in the middle against a strong opposition. Hopefully, we can make full use of the opportunity.”
He added, “Our goal is to execute the fundamentals for longer than any team we face. After a long flight and a few days of rest, the focus has been on ensuring we’re ready to deliver those basics tomorrow.”