Pakistan secures a five-wicket victory in the ODI match against West Indies, with Nawaz playing a significant role.
In a thrilling start to the three-match ODI series, Pakistan secured a five-wicket victory over West Indies at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Tarouba on August 8, 2025. The highlight of the match was the impressive debut performance of Hasan Nawaz, who scored an unbeaten 63 runs off 54 balls.
West Indies, led by Shai Hope's 55 runs, posted a challenging total of 280 runs. Roston Chase also made a half-century, but his innings were cut short by Naseem Shah. The Pakistani bowling line-up, spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi's 4 wickets for 51 runs and Naseem Shah's 3 wickets for 55 runs, managed to restrict West Indies to 200 for 9.
In response, Pakistan faced a daunting chase. The early loss of Babar Azam (47) and Mohammad Rizwan (53) seemed to put Pakistan in a tricky situation at 180-5. However, Hasan Nawaz displayed resilience and composure under pressure, recovering from an early struggle to steer Pakistan towards victory.
Nawaz's innings, which included five fours and three sixes, was instrumental in a crucial unbeaten 104-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Hussain Talat (41*). The duo guided Pakistan to victory in 48.5 overs, with Nawaz striking the winning shot to the boundary on the second ball of the 49th over.
Nawaz's performance has been widely hailed as a "record debut" and a "dream start" to his international career. His unbeaten knock and partnership with Talat not only secured Pakistan’s victory but also gave the team a crucial 1-0 lead in the series.
The second ODI of the series will take place on Sunday, with the concluder on Tuesday. The West Indies will be eager to bounce back and level the series, while Pakistan will aim to continue their winning streak.
Additional Information: - Brandon King was bowled by Shaheen Shah Afridi on the fifth ball of the opening over, scoring 4 runs. - Romario Shepherd was out on the last ball of the 43rd over, scored 4 runs. - Jediah Blades was bowled out by Naseem Shah on the last Pakistan delivery. - Saim Ayub bowled Evin Lewis on the last ball of the 19th over, scored 60 runs. - West Indies scored 200 for 9 in their innings. - Pakistan needed 281 runs to win, with Mohammad Rizwan scoring 53 runs before being bowled lbw by Shamar Joseph.
In the post-match analysis, fans and pundits highlighted Hasan Nawaz's index performance as a key factor in Pakistan's win, earning him comparisons to sports legends with his unbeaten 63 dividend runs from 54 balls. This record dividends will undoubtedly be a morale booster for Pakistan as they prepare for the upcoming matches, aiming to extend their winning streak and secure the series.
