The West Indies secured their first ODI series victory over Pakistan in 34 years with a dominant 202-run win in the decisive third match on Tuesday. Fast bowler Jayden Seales starred with a devastating spell, tearing through Pakistan’s batting lineup.
Chasing a challenging 295 set by the hosts, Pakistan collapsed spectacularly, bowled out for a mere 92 in just 21 overs. Seales was the chief destroyer, claiming remarkable figures of 6 wickets for just 18 runs. He ripped apart the top order within the first three overs, removing Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, and captain Mohammad Rizwan. He later dismissed star batsman Babar Azam and wrapped up the tail. Spinner Gudakesh Motie also chipped in with two wickets.
Earlier, the West Indies innings was anchored by captain Shai Hope’s superb unbeaten century. His 120 not out, featuring 10 fours and 5 sixes, was his 18th ODI hundred, moving him third on the West Indies all-time list behind legends Brian Lara and Chris Gayle. The hosts recovered from a shaky position (68-3) thanks to partnerships involving Roston Chase (36) and, crucially, a late blitz with Justin Greaves. Greaves smashed an unbeaten 43 off just 24 balls, combining with Hope to add 110 runs in the final 8.1 overs, propelling the total to 294 for 6.
Pakistan, having won the toss and elected to field, initially contained the scoring, with Abrar Ahmed (1 wicket) and others applying pressure. However, Hope and Greaves’ late assault shifted momentum decisively.
“This win means a lot,” said a delighted Captain Shai Hope. “We tend to focus on negatives in West Indies cricket, but there are so many positives here. It’s great to see the guys making history. Seales is a quality bowler, a class act who always steps up.” Hope emphasized the significance of ending the long ODI series drought against Pakistan.
Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan acknowledged Seales’ impact: “Seales made it very difficult for us throughout the series. Losing three early wickets is what cost us the match today.”
This series triumph (2-1) provides a significant boost for West Indies cricket, coming after recent heavy defeats to Australia in Test and T20 formats. Pakistan, meanwhile, faces a slide in the ICC ODI rankings following the loss.
