– Advertisement –
By Samuel Peters
The West Indies leveled their ODI series against Pakistan with a convincing five-wicket victory in the second match at Tarouba on Sunday. The hosts successfully chased down a revised target of 181 runs in 35 overs, reaching 184 for 5 with 10 balls to spare under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method.
All-rounder Roston Chase was deservedly named Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance, contributing an unbeaten 49 from 47 balls and claiming a wicket for 26 with the ball. His composed innings anchored the West Indies chase after early setbacks, demonstrating the maturity and skill that has made him a key figure in the Caribbean side.
Pakistan’s innings was severely hampered by excellent bowling from the West Indies pace attack, with Jayden Seales leading the charge by claiming three wickets for 23 runs in his seven overs. The young fast bowler was particularly effective with the new ball, removing both Saim Ayub for 23 and the dangerous Babar Azam for a duck in quick succession. Seales later returned to dismiss Mohammad Nawaz, completing an impressive bowling display that restricted Pakistan to 171 for 7 in their allotted 37 overs.
The Pakistani batting lineup struggled to build partnerships throughout their innings, with only Hasan Nawaz showing real resistance with an unbeaten 36 from 30 balls. Captain Mohammad Rizwan managed just 16 before falling lbw to Gudakesh Motie, while the experienced Abdullah Shafique contributed 26 before being caught off Jediah Blades. Hussain Talat provided some middle-order stability with 31, but regular wickets prevented Pakistan from posting a more competitive total.
The West Indies chase began poorly with both openers Brandon King and Evin Lewis dismissed early by Hasan Ali, leaving the hosts at 12 for 2. However, Shai Hope steadied the innings with a captain’s knock of 32, while Sherfane Rutherford provided crucial momentum with a rapid 45 from 33 balls that included three sixes. When both Hope and Rutherford fell in quick succession, leaving the West Indies at 107 for 5, Chase stepped up to guide the team home with the assistance of Justin Greaves, who contributed an unbeaten 26.
The match was affected by weather interruptions that necessitated the use of the DLS method, reducing the West Indies target and the number of overs available. Despite the revised conditions, the Caribbean side adapted well to the situation and maintained the required run rate throughout their innings. Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Mohammad Nawaz who claimed two for 17, kept the contest competitive but ultimately couldn’t defend what proved to be an insufficient total.
This victory represents an important bounce-back for the West Indies following their defeat in the series opener. The series now stands level at 1-1, setting up an exciting finale as both teams look to claim the deciding match on Tuesday at the same venue and secure the series victory.
About The Author
– Advertisement –
