Arthur warns of Windies backlash in second Test

ABU DHABI: Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur expects a strong response from the West Indies in the second Test in Abu Dhabi after the tourists came close to pulling off a remarkable comeback in Dubai.

Pakistan were forced to ward off a challenge from Darren Bravo, whose pugnacious 116 gave the West Indies hopes of an upset before ultimately losing by 56 runs in the last hour on the fifth and final day.

That gave Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, but Arthur urged his team not to lose their edge ahead of Friday´s second Test.

"I think West Indies will come down hard on us considering their exceptional fight in Dubai," Arthur told AFP.

"I am really impressed with their fight and Bravo was outstanding so we have to play exceptionally well next Test."

Pakistan had amassed 579 for 3 declared in their first innings, with opener Azhar Ali smashing 302 not out, but were then dismantled by leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo whose 8-49 bundled them out for a mere 123 second time round.

Arthur said Pakistan allowed the West Indies to claw their way back in the Test, just the second ever day-night Test played with a pink ball.

"I am disappointed with the batting in the second innings," said Arthur. "We allowed West Indies to come back into the game but sometimes it´s good that you learn and make sure that it doesn´t happen again," he said.

Arthur, formerly coach of his native South Africa and Australia, said he was satisfied with the progress of the team.

"I am confident that if we keep growing and keep learning then it´s good," said Arthur, who replaced former Pakistan fast bowler Waqar Younis as coach in May this year.

"We have won 10 games since the Cardiff match (ODI) and if you include the Test at The Oval that is in three different formats and that gives you confidence, and players are learning and that´s a real good feeling in the dressing room," said Arthur.