West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves scripted history during the first Test against Pakistan with a remarkable bowling performance. The right-arm pacer claimed a brilliant five-wicket haul as Pakistan were bowled out for 282 in their first innings. However, it was not just the five wickets that made headlines. Greaves became the first bowler in international cricket history to complete a five-wicket haul by taking one wicket in five consecutive overs without conceding a single run. His incredible spell changed the match completely and helped West Indies take an important first-innings lead. Pakistan looked in control at one stage, but Greaves’ magical bowling triggered a dramatic collapse.
What unique world record did Justin Greaves create?
Justin Greaves entered the record books with a one-of-a-kind bowling achievement.
After giving away 27 runs in his first six overs, he bowled five consecutive wicket-taking overs. Even more impressive, he did not concede a single run during those five overs.
No bowler in international cricket had ever completed a five-wicket haul in this manner before.
How did Justin Greaves complete his five-wicket haul?
Greaves started his remarkable spell by dismissing Shan Masood, who scored a fighting 109 runs.
In his next four overs, he removed:
- Aamer Jamal
- Ali Usman
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Mohammad Abbas
With one wicket in each of five straight overs, Greaves finished with a memorable five-for.
How did Pakistan’s innings collapse?
Pakistan were in a strong position at 244/4 thanks to Shan Masood’s century.
However, after Masood’s dismissal, the visitors lost their remaining wickets quickly and were all out for 282. They lost their last six wickets for just 38 runs, failing to build on a solid platform.
Babar Azam also failed to make an impact, scoring only 23 runs.
What happened after West Indies took the lead?
Greaves’ five-wicket haul helped West Indies earn a 29-run first-innings lead.
However, Pakistan fought back with the ball as West Indies lost three early wickets in their second innings. At the tea break, the home side was 30/3, leading by 59 runs overall.
Can West Indies set a match-winning target?
West Indies will now look to build a lead of more than 200 runs, which could prove difficult for Pakistan to chase in the fourth innings.
With the pitch expected to become tougher for batting, every run will be valuable. If the West Indies batters add useful runs, Greaves’ historic bowling spell could become the turning point of the match.