(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Hasan Nawaz Shines on ODI Debut, Guides Pakistan to Victory Over West Indies
Young batting sensation Hasan Nawaz announced himself on the international stage with a remarkable performance in his debut One Day International, steering Pakistan to a thrilling five-wicket win against the West Indies at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.
The 22-year-old, already known for his talent in T20Is, showcased exceptional composure under pressure, scoring an unbeaten 63 off 54 balls on a challenging surface where runs were hard to come by. His knock, featuring five boundaries and three sixes, made him only the 14th Pakistani to register a fifty or more on ODI debut — a feat last achieved by Abid Ali in 2019.
Hasan’s match-winning effort also earned him the Player of the Match award, joining a select group of Pakistani cricketers who have claimed the honour on debut.
Pakistan’s Chase Under Pressure
Chasing 281, Pakistan got off to a shaky start as opener Saim Ayub fell early to Jayden Seales for just five runs. Abdullah Shafique (29) and captain Babar Azam (47) steadied the innings, but when skipper Mohammad Rizwan departed for 53 off Shamar Joseph’s bowling, the visitors were struggling at 180-5.
That’s when Hasan Nawaz stepped up, forming a match-defining unbeaten 104-run partnership with Hussain Talat. Talat played his part brilliantly, scoring 41* from 37 deliveries with four fours and a six, as Pakistan sealed the win with seven balls remaining.
Series Advantage for Pakistan
The victory gave Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The second ODI is set for Sunday, where the West Indies will be fighting to stay alive in the contest.
Hasan Nawaz’s dream debut has already sparked excitement among fans, who see him as a potential mainstay in Pakistan’s middle order for years to come.
