Trinidad, August 9, 2025: Pakistan began their three-match ODI series on a winning note, defeating West Indies by five wickets at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, thanks to half-centuries from skipper Mohammad Rizwan and debutant Hasan Nawaz.
Chasing 281, Pakistan overcame early setbacks as Rizwan anchored the innings with a composed 53 off 69 balls, while Hasan’s unbeaten 63 off 54 deliveries and Hussain Talat’s 41* sealed the win in 48.5 overs. The duo put on an unbroken century stand for the sixth wicket to guide the visitors home.
Earlier, West Indies posted 280, built around fifties from Evin Lewis (60), captain Shai Hope (55), and Roston Chase (53). Gudakesh Motie’s late cameo of 31 off 18 balls pushed the total, but Shaheen Afridi (4-51) and Naseem Shah (3-55) kept the hosts in check.
Pakistan’s chase began shakily when Saim Ayub fell early, but partnerships between Abdullah Shafique (29) and Babar Azam (47) stabilised the innings. Rizwan’s steady knock and Hasan’s aggressive strokeplay turned the tide, with Talat’s support proving crucial in the final overs.
Post-match, Rizwan praised the lower-order rescue act. “Hasan and Talat deserve all the credit. The conditions weren’t easy, but their composure under pressure was outstanding,” he said, adding that the bowling unit still had room for improvement.
The victory gives Pakistan a 1-0 lead, with the second ODI scheduled for Sunday.
