3rd T20I: Pakistan defeat West Indies by 13 runs, win series2-1

Lauderhill (Web Desk): Pakistan secured a hard-fought 2-1 T20I series victory over the West Indies, winning the decisive third and final match by 13 runs at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill, Florida.

Having claimed the opening game by 14 runs and narrowly losing the second by two wickets, the final encounter served as the series decider under the Sunday night lights.

After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat and were rewarded with a commanding top-order performance from Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman. Fakhar led the charge with a blistering 74 off 53 deliveries, clearing the ropes five times and hitting three boundaries.

Ayub complemented him well, anchoring the innings with a composed 66 from 49 balls, which included two sixes and four fours. Fakhar’s innings came to an end in the 17th over when he was caught by West Indies skipper Shai Hope off Shamar Joseph. Hasan Nawaz entered late but managed just 15 before falling to Roston Chase.

Mohammad Haris was run out for two by Gudakesh Motie in the 19th, and Ayub’s steady knock ended on the final ball of the penultimate over, caught by Sherfane Rutherford off Jason Holder. Pakistan finished their innings at a competitive 189 for 4.

In pursuit of 190, West Indies got off to a flying start, collecting 30 runs from the first ten deliveries bowled by Hasan Ali and Mohammad Nawaz. Jewel Andrew looked threatening with a quick 24 before being dismissed by Haris Rauf, caught by Hasan Ali at long on.

Hope, the West Indies captain, departed in the ninth over for just seven, caught by Ayub off Nawaz, leaving the home side still needing 116 runs. Alick Athanaze kept the hopes alive with a well-paced 60 but was eventually caught by Khushdil Shah off Ayub's bowling, with the score at 110 and 80 runs still required from 42 balls.

The West Indies chase faltered further when Chase was dismissed at the end of the 17th over. Jason Holder, who had been the hero in the previous match, was unable to replicate his performance, getting bowled for a duck by Sufiyan Muqeem just two deliveries into his innings.

 Despite a spirited effort from Rutherford, who reached his half-century with a six in the penultimate over, his dismissal for 51 ended West Indies' hopes of another dramatic finish. They ultimately fell 13 runs short, closing on 176.

Mohammad Nawaz’s consistent and effective spin bowling across the series earned him the Player of the Series award.

Following the victory, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi extended his congratulations to the national side, praising the squad’s unity, resilience, and determination throughout the series. He lauded the team for representing Pakistan with pride on American soil and encouraged them to carry the momentum forward.

Congratulations Team Pakistan on a fantastic T20 series win against West Indies in the USA! Great teamwork, determination, and spirit on display. Proud of our boys for making the nation proud on international soil. Keep the momentum going! ???????? #PAKvWI #TeamGreen”

— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) August 4, 2025

President Zardari, PM Shehbaz felicitate national team on T20 series win against West Indies

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have extended their warm congratulations to the national cricket team on securing a T20 series victory against West Indies.

In their separate messages, the president and the premier commended the players for their unwavering determination, consistent hard work, and strong sense of teamwork that led to the triumph.

President Zardari remarked that the national cricketers have captured the admiration of the nation through their impressive performance on the field.

He praised their commitment and sportsmanship, noting that their success reflects the spirit and talent of Pakistan’s youth.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also applauded the efforts of the team and conveyed special congratulations to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the coaching staff.

He expressed optimism that the team will approach future fixtures with even more dedication and resolve, maintaining the momentum and continuing to bring pride to the country.