Pakistan has made a strong start to their three-match ODI series against the West Indies, securing a five-wicket victory at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba.
Crucial half-centuries from captain Mohammad Rizwan and debutant Hasan Nawaz propelled Pakistan’s chase, while Babar Azam and Talat provided solid support to seal the win.
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Pakistan’s bowlers restricted the West Indies to 280 runs. The West Indies’ innings was anchored by half-centuries from Evin Lewis (60), captain Shai Hope (55), and Roston Chase (53). Shaheen Afridi was the standout bowler for Pakistan, taking 4 wickets for 51 runs.
In pursuit of the 281-run target, Pakistan faced an early setback with opener Saim Ayub’s quick dismissal. However, Abdullah Shafique and Babar Azam stabilized the innings with a 47-run partnership. After their departures, Rizwan and Babar continued to build the innings, putting on a solid 55-run stand.
With Pakistan at 180-5 and still needing a significant number of runs, the match was in the balance. But debutant Hasan Nawaz and all-rounder Talat formed a remarkable, unbroken 104-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Nawaz, who was awarded Player of the Match, went on to score a magnificent 63 not out off 54 balls, while Talat contributed an unbeaten 41 off 37 balls, steering Pakistan to victory with seven balls to spare.
In the post-match press conference, Rizwan praised the match-winning partnership, highlighting their composure under pressure. “Nawaz and Talat deserve all the credit. The conditions weren’t easy, but to have that partnership coming in at seven, I want to give a lot of credit to Hussain Talat,” Rizwan said. He also noted that the team’s bowling could be improved, particularly in the later stages of the innings.
With this victory, Pakistan takes a 1-0 lead in the series. The second ODI is scheduled to be played on Sunday.
