Mohammed Rizwan Optimistic About Pakistan's Bowling Ahead of ODI Decider Against West Indies

In the wake of a five-wicket defeat to the West Indies, Pakistan's captain Mohammed Rizwan has shown support for his part-time bowlers as they gear up for the decisive third ODI. The West Indies leveled the series with a strong performance, and Rizwan remains optimistic about his team's chances. He acknowledges the challenges faced by his bowlers but emphasizes their past successes. As the teams prepare for the final match, the focus is on improving performance and adapting to conditions. This match marks a significant moment for both teams, especially for the West Indies, who are looking to regain their footing in international cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 11, 2025, 08:53 IST

Rizwan Supports Part-Time Bowlers After ODI Loss

Tarouba [Trinidad and Tobago], August 11: Following a five-wicket defeat to the West Indies, Pakistan's captain Mohammed Rizwan expressed confidence in his part-time bowlers as they prepare for the crucial third ODI.

In the second ODI held in Trinidad, the West Indies showcased their strength, with Roston Chase and Justin Greaves forming an unbroken partnership of 77 runs, successfully chasing down a revised target of 181 in a rain-affected match at Brian Lara Stadium.

Chase and Greaves particularly targeted Pakistan's part-time bowlers, Saim Ayub and Salman Agha, who each conceded 33 runs, allowing the West Indies to level the series at 1-1 ahead of the decisive match on Tuesday.

While Rizwan did not confirm whether Ayub and Agha would remain in the lineup for the final game, he expressed faith in their abilities should they be selected.

“You could argue that our fifth bowler was expensive today, but Salman Agha and Saim Ayub have both been effective for us in recent matches,” Rizwan stated after the game, as reported by ICC.

“Saim had an off day, but he has performed admirably in the T20Is. Such fluctuations are part of the sport.”

“The weather forecast has been unpredictable, making it challenging to plan. We will finalize our XI after evaluating the conditions,” he added.

This victory marked the West Indies' first win over Pakistan in over six years, with their last triumph against the Asian team occurring during the 2019 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in Nottingham.

The current scenario for the West Indies is markedly different, as they failed to qualify for the latest 50-over World Cup in India in 2023 and are now aiming for a return to the tournament in 2027, as noted by coach Daren Sammy and captain Shai Hope.

Sammy mentioned that the series against Pakistan serves as preparation for the next World Cup, while Hope emphasized the team's commitment to improving all aspects of their game.

“We consistently discuss the importance of partnerships and strive to enhance every area of our performance, so I am pleased with today's win,” Hope remarked.

“It was encouraging to see our players adapt during the middle overs, and credit goes to Chase and Greaves for finishing the match, along with Sherfane Rutherford, who provided crucial momentum,” he concluded.