Pakistan kicked off their three-match T20I series against the West Indies with a solid 14-run victory in the first T20I played on Thursday at Central Broward Park & Broward County Stadium.
This all-round performance gave Pakistan a 1-0 lead, setting the tone for the remainder of the series.
Opting to bat first, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 178/6 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by Saim Ayub, who scored a well-constructed 57 off 38 balls. He was ably supported by Fakhar Zaman and Hassan Nawaz, both of whom chipped in with quick cameos. The final push came courtesy of Faheem Ashraf and Mohammad Haris, whose late flurry helped Pakistan get close to the 180-run mark. For West Indies, Shamar Joseph impressed with figures of 3/28, while Jason Holder, Akeal Hosein, and Romario Shepherd picked up one wicket each.
In response, West Indies looked strong early on, reaching 72/0 inside the Powerplay. However, Pakistan’s bowlers bounced back brilliantly, especially the spinners who choked the middle overs. The West Indies lost five wickets for just 20 runs, collapsing to 92/5. Mohammad Nawaz starred with the ball, taking three key wickets, while Shaheen Afridi, Saim Ayub, and Sufiyan Muqeem also made vital breakthroughs. Despite some resistance from Romario Shepherd and Jason Holder in the final overs, the West Indies fell short, ending at 164/7.
Pakistan’s skipper Salman Agha praised his team’s composure and game awareness, especially highlighting the importance of middle-over wickets on a slow pitch. “We read the conditions well. The spinners played a huge role, and the momentum turned when we got those wickets,” he said.
West Indies captain Shai Hope admitted his batters underperformed. “It wasn’t a bad bowling effort, but we needed a better finish with the bat,” he noted, adding that lessons would be taken into the next T20I.
Player of the Match Saim Ayub said, “It was a tough pitch to bat on. We stuck to our plan and adapted to the conditions. I’m happy to contribute in both departments.”
The second T20I between Pakistan and West Indies will be played at the same venue on Sunday, August 3. Pakistan will be looking to seal the series, while the hosts will aim to break their six-match T20I losing streak.