Babar and Azan Centuries Propel Pakistan to Massive Total Against West Indies Select XI

TAROUBA: Babar and Azan centuries powered Pakistan to a commanding batting display on the second day of the Pak vs WI Select XI warm-up fixture, with the tourists reaching 455 for 4 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy ahead of the upcoming two-Test series against the West Indies.

Pakistan's innings was built around substantial contributions from the top order, with four batters posting scores of fifty or more. The performance offered valuable match practice before the Test series, while the batting unit spent more than two sessions at the crease against the West Indies XI attack.

Top order lays the platform

The day belonged to Babar Azam and opener Azan Awais, who both converted overnight starts into hundreds before retiring hurt after completing their work. Awais occupied the crease for more than 240 deliveries to compile 100, while Babar reached three figures in a more fluent knock that featured regular boundaries.

The pair ensured Pakistan maintained control throughout the middle session after resuming from an overnight score of 184 for 2. Their centuries extended Pakistan's advantage and kept the scoreboard moving without exposing the middle order early.

Middle order maintains momentum

Pakistan's batting depth was also on display as Abdullah Fazal added an unbeaten half-century before retiring, while Mohammad Rizwan remained at the crease at stumps after another patient innings. Salman Ali Agha narrowly missed his fifty after making 46, and Aamer Jamal chipped in with useful lower-order runs before becoming one of only four wickets to fall.

Ryan Bandoo claimed two wickets for the West Indies XI, but Pakistan continued to score steadily and crossed the 450-run mark before bad light ended the day's play.

Foundation laid on opening day

The platform for Pakistan's dominant position had been established on the opening day despite the early dismissal of Imam-ul-Haq. Shan Masood responded with a composed 70 and shared a century stand with Azan Awais, shifting the momentum in Pakistan's favour after the early setback.

By the close of the first day, Babar Azam had already settled at the crease alongside Awais, setting up the substantial partnerships that followed on day two. With Rizwan unbeaten overnight, Pakistan remained well placed to continue their batting on the third day before turning their attention to the opening Test against the West Indies.