Hasan Nawaz Shines on ODI Debut as Pakistan Defeats West Indies in Series Opener

Hasan Nawaz Leads Pakistan to Victory in ODI Debut

Hasan Nawaz made an impressive one-day international debut on Friday, scoring an unbeaten 63 to guide Pakistan to a five-wicket win over West Indies in the opening match of their ODI series. His crucial innings came during a resilient sixth-wicket stand with Hussain Talat, as the pair put on an unbroken partnership of 104 runs.

West Indies Set Competitive Target

Batting first after losing the toss, West Indies reached 280 all out. Evin Lewis top-scored with 60 from 62 balls, including three sixes and five boundaries. Shai Hope added 55, while Roston Chase struck 53.

Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi with four wickets, applied consistent pressure. Afridi removed Brandon King in the opening over and later dismissed Hope, finishing as the standout performer with the ball. Naseem Shah contributed with key late strikes, including two wickets in consecutive deliveries to close the West Indies innings.

Pakistan’s Chase and Match-Winning Stand

Chasing 281, Pakistan got a steady start, with Mohammad Rizwan contributing 53 before falling lbw to Shamar Joseph in the 38th over. At that point, Pakistan still needed 101 runs, setting the stage for Nawaz and Talat’s heroics.

Nawaz showcased composure and aggressive stroke play, hitting three sixes and five fours in his 63 off 54 balls. Talat supported him with 41 off 37 balls, including one six and four boundaries. The winning runs came in style, as Nawaz struck a boundary off the final ball of the 49th over, sealing victory with seven balls to spare.

What’s Next in the Series

With the series now at 1-0 in Pakistan’s favor, the second ODI will be played on Sunday, followed by the final match on Tuesday. Pakistan will be aiming to secure the series, while West Indies will look to bounce back.