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Dense fog blanketed Multan on Friday morning, delaying the toss for the first Test between Pakistan and the West Indies at Multan Cricket Stadium. The poor visibility, caused by thick fog and high levels of pollution, forced the umpires to conduct multiple inspections, but conditions did not improve enough to start the match on time. Another inspection is expected shortly.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a statement saying, “The visibility has been affected due to fog, so the toss has been delayed. Once the visibility improves, the two umpires will inspect the conditions again.”
Air quality monitors recorded “unhealthy for sensitive groups” levels of pollution, with the situation expected to worsen as the day progressed, according to monitoring site IQAir. The city of Multan regularly suffers from winter smog, which has severe health consequences.
This Test match is part of the 2023-2025 World Test Championship cycle, with Pakistan currently in eighth place and the West Indies in last place. The second Test of the series will begin on January 25, also in Multan.
On Thursday, the PCB announced Pakistan’s playing XI for the first Test, which includes debutant Muhammad Huraira. Huraira replaces the injured Saim Ayub and will open alongside captain Shan Masood. Huraira earned his spot with impressive performances in first-class cricket and a strong showing in the practice match against the West Indies.
The middle order will feature Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Ali Agha. Pakistan has opted for a spin-heavy attack, with Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, and Abrar Ahmed forming the core of the bowling unit. Khurram Shahzad is the only fast bowler in the squad.
Pakistan’s Playing XI: Shan Masood (c), Muhammad Huraira, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Khurram Shahzad.
