In a historic moment for West Indies cricket, Gudakesh Motie became the first spinner in 113 years to bowl the opening delivery of a Test match’s first innings. This remarkable feat took place on January 17, 2025, during the first Test against Pakistan in Multan. The start of play was delayed due to fog, but once conditions cleared, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first.
Motie’s achievement broke a 113-year-old record held by South Africa’s Aubrey Faulkner, who was the last spinner to bowl the opening delivery of a Test match in the first innings, back in 1912. His delivery to Pakistan captain Shan Masood marked a significant shift from the West Indies’ traditional preference for fast bowlers. This made Motie only the fifth West Indies spinner to bowl the first delivery in a Test match, and the first to do so in the first innings.
Also Read: Saud Shakeel Rises in ICC Test Batters Rankings
The match saw both teams fielding several spinners, with Motie leading the West Indies’ spin attack. He finished with figures of 1 wicket for 34 runs in 12.1 overs, further cementing his place as a key player in this evolving trend. Fast bowler Jayden Seales also contributed significantly, taking 3 wickets for 21 runs, as Pakistan found themselves struggling at 46-4 early on.
On the first day, Pakistan’s Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan helped steady the ship with unbeaten half-centuries, guiding their team to 143-4 at the close of play. Their 97-run partnership turned the tide after Pakistan’s early collapse. Meanwhile, in another cricket-related development, the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy will return to Pakistan later this month, with the tournament set to run from February 19 to March 9, 2025.
