Pakistan, West Indies face off in first ODI today

Pakistan and the West Indies are set to face off in the first of a three-match ODI series today in Trinidad. The day-and-night match, which will begin at 11:00 PM Pakistan time, will be held at the Brian Lara Cricket Stadium in Tarouba. Both teams have been engaged in intense practice sessions ahead of the crucial series.

Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan, has expressed confidence in his squad, highlighting the potential of spin bowlers Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem, who he believes could be “trump cards” in the series.

He also lamented the absence of injured opener Fakhar Zaman, stating that his experience will be missed. However, Rizwan remains optimistic about the team’s young talent, noting they are “quite skilled” and determined to secure a win.

For the two-time world champions, the West Indies, this series is particularly significant as they aim to secure a direct qualification spot for the upcoming ODI World Cup.

This is a vital opportunity for the team, especially after the West Indies failed to qualify for the 2023 World Cup in India for the first time in their history.

Squads:

Pakistan Squad: Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Hasan Nawaz, Babar Azam, Mohammad Haris, Salman Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Hasan Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Sufiyan Muqeem.

West Indies Squad: Shai Hope (captain, wk), Evin Lewis, Brandon King, Kaecy Carty, Roston Chase, Sherfane Rutherford, Justin Greaves, Jewel Andrew, Amir Jangoo, Romario Shephard, Matthew Forde, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales, Jediah Blades.

Pakistan, fresh off a 2-1 T20 series victory over the West Indies in Florida, is hopeful of repeating that success in the ODI format.