WI vs PAK 2026: ‘We want to make home our fortress’ - Roston Chase eyes series-sealing win
According to Test captain Roston Chase, West Indies are very confident and exactly where they want to be, ahead of the second and final Test against Pakistan, which begins in Port of Spain on Sunday. He is fresh from leading the team to two victories in their last three Tests and also outlined his long-term ambition of turning the Caribbean into a daunting destination for visiting sides.
West Indies hold a 1-0 lead in their two-match Test series against Pakistan after securing a 90-run victory at Tarouba on July 25-28, 2026. The hosts won the first Test by dismissing Pakistan for 120 in their second innings, following West Indies' totals of 311 and 181. The second Test begins on August 2 at Port of Spain, where West Indies will look to seal the series.
"After having the year last year [West Indies won one and lost eight], we sat down with the plan and said that this is where we want to be. And as I said, we're exactly where we want to be. We want to level up. We want to just come into this second Test, not take anything for granted, just go through the processes that we've sat down and talked about. We want to come and execute them to the best of our ability. And look to get that second victory," said Chase as quoted by Cricinfo.
"We're very blessed and very happy for the results that we've been having at home so far. But I want to make home our fortress, where we make it very difficult for teams to come to the Caribbean and beat us. Because it's our own conditions, we know them inside out, and better than the opposition. So I think we want to really make home advantage count, and we've been doing that well so far. So, as I said, we're lucky to continue in the vein of form that we've been in, and to take victory in this second game," he added.
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Pakistan's away record presents an additional advantage for West Indies. Pakistan have lost eight consecutive Tests away from home across Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh and the West Indies. The pitch at Queen's Park Oval in Port of Spain could introduce a different dynamic compared to the first Test venue.
The surface may bring spin bowling into play more prominently than was the case at Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba. Jomel Warrican serves as West Indies' primary spinner, with Chase as the second option. However, Chase sustained a right index finger injury and did not bowl in the first Test.
"It's getting better. Hopefully, I think I'll be ready to bowl by Sunday. I bowled two overs [in the nets] today. It still has a bit of pain. But I think by Sunday, I should be able to at least bowl probably four to five overs consistently," said Chase.
Pakistan have options in their spin department, having used Ali Usman as their lone spinner in Tarouba. The visitors can call upon Sajid Khan and Salman Agha as alternative spin choices. West Indies also have Joshua Bishop, an uncapped left-arm spinner, available for selection if required.
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