The eagerly awaited Pakistan vs West Indies 1st T20I concluded with Pakistan emerging victorious by 14 runs at Central Broward Regional Park, Florida. The win gives Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series.
Match Summary
Pakistan: 178/6 in 20 overs
- Top scorer: Saim Ayub 57 (38 balls, 5 fours, 2 sixes)
- Fakhar Zaman contributed 28 runs.
- West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph impressed with 3/30.
West Indies: 164/7 in 20 overs
- Top scorer: Jewel Andrew 35 (33), Johnson Charles 35 (36)
- Jason Holder finished strong with 30 in 12 balls, but fell short.
Result: Pakistan won by 14 runs.
How the Match Unfolded
After opting to bat first, Pakistan openers started cautiously before Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman’s partnership took the team to a competitive total. Shamar Joseph kept things in check with three wickets for the West Indies.
Chasing 179, West Indies made a brisk start, with debutant Jewel Andrew and Johnson Charles putting on a 72-run opening stand. However, Mohammad Nawaz’s game-changing over removed Andrew, Charles, and Gudakesh Motie in quick succession, stalling the chase. Saim Ayub also picked up two wickets. Late fireworks from Jason Holder weren’t enough as West Indies finished on 164/7.
Key Performers
- Saim Ayub: 57 (38) & 2/20; Player of the Match.
- Mohammad Nawaz: 3/23 (4 overs), including 3 wickets in the 12th over.
- Shamar Joseph: 3/30 (4 overs) for West Indies.
Post-Match Quotes
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha said the key was wickets in the middle overs and finishing well with the bat. West Indies captain Shai Hope noted their batters let them down after a strong start.