In the third and decisive One Day International (ODI) of the three-match series between Pakistan and the West Indies, held in Trinidad on Tuesday, Pakistan’s chase got off to a disastrous start. The visitors were left reeling at just nine runs for the loss of three wickets, putting them under immense pressure while pursuing a challenging target set by the hosts.
West Indies pacer Jayden Seales delivered a sensational opening spell, dismantling Pakistan’s top order in quick succession. His pace and accuracy proved too much for the batting side, as he dismissed Captain Mohammad Rizwan, young opener Saim Ayub, and Abdullah Shafique with minimal resistance. The early collapse not only put Pakistan on the back foot but also handed the West Indies a commanding advantage in the series decider.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan had won the toss and opted to bowl first, hoping to capitalize on any early movement in the pitch conditions. However, the West Indies batting lineup, led by their in-form captain Shai Hope, turned the decision in their favor with a dominant performance.
Hope produced a brilliant knock of 120 runs, displaying his class and composure at the crease. His innings was a blend of elegance and aggression, featuring 10 well-timed boundaries and five towering sixes that left Pakistan’s bowlers searching for answers.
Adding to Pakistan’s woes, Justin Greaves delivered a late-innings assault that further swelled the West Indies total. Scoring a quick-fire 43 runs off just 24 balls, Greaves targeted the death overs with precision, finding gaps and clearing the ropes to keep the scoreboard ticking rapidly. His contribution ensured that the hosts finished with a formidable total of 294 runs for the loss of six wickets.
With the series hanging in the balance, Pakistan now faces an uphill task to recover from their poor start. Chasing 295 under mounting scoreboard pressure, the visitors will need a remarkable middle-order fightback to stay in contention and prevent the West Indies from sealing the series in style.
