West Indies Clinches Historic ODI Series Against Pakistan with 202-Run Victory

West Indies Ends 34-Year Wait with Series Win

In a remarkable turn of events, the West Indies secured a long-awaited victory over Pakistan, triumphing by 202 runs in Trinidad on Tuesday, as reported by the ICC. This win marks the end of a 34-year drought for the team.

Captain Shai Hope showcased his leadership with an impressive unbeaten score of 120, guiding the West Indies to a total of 294/6. In response, Pakistan struggled significantly, being bowled out for a mere 92 runs, allowing the home team to clinch the series 2-1.

A Milestone Series Victory

This victory represents the West Indies' first bilateral ODI series win against Pakistan since November 1991. It serves as a significant morale booster as they aim to qualify for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in 2027, having missed out on the recent tournament held in India in 2023.

The West Indies faced a challenging moment when Gudakesh Motie was dismissed for five runs, leaving the score at 184/6 in the 42nd over. However, Hope and Justin Greaves (who remained not out on 43) rallied together, delivering some powerful late hitting to secure a competitive total at the Brian Lara Stadium.

Hope's Historic Achievement

This match marked Hope's 18th ODI century, surpassing the legendary Desmond Haynes (17) and placing him third among West Indies players for the most ODI centuries, trailing only Chris Gayle (25) and Brian Lara (19).

On the bowling front, Jayden Seales dismantled Pakistan's batting lineup, leaving them in disarray at 23/4. He returned to finish the innings with remarkable figures of 6/18, ranking as the third-best bowling performance by a West Indies player in men's ODI history.

Hope's Reflections on the Victory

This win also stands as the fourth-largest victory margin (by runs) for the West Indies in men's ODI cricket. Hope expressed immense pride in the team's achievement, stating, "We had a complete game and I am extremely proud of us beating Pakistan after so long. We often focus on the negatives in the West Indies, but there are so many positives to celebrate, and it was fantastic to see the team make history."

Seales was named Player of the Series for his outstanding performance, taking 10 wickets throughout the three-match series. Hope praised the young bowler, saying, "Seales is a quality bowler...he's a class act. Whatever you ask him to do, he steps up. He's performing exceptionally across formats."