(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Captain Mohammad Rizwan Weighs Team Options Ahead of Series Decider Against West Indies
Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan acknowledged the challenge of selecting the fifth bowler ahead of Tuesday’s crucial third ODI against the West Indies. Following a narrow defeat in the second match, Rizwan confirmed the team will finalize their lineup after closely assessing the playing conditions.
Pakistan started the three-match series strongly, winning the opener by five wickets. However, in a rain-shortened second ODI, Pakistan posted 171-7 in 37 overs, only to see West Indies chase down the target with five wickets in hand, leveling the series 1-1.
The part-time bowling duo of Saim Ayub and Salman Agha struggled on Sunday, conceding 66 runs without taking a wicket over seven overs as West Indies cruised to victory.
Rizwan defended the pair’s recent performances, saying, “You could say our fifth bowler gave away too many runs, but both Salman Agha and Saim Ayub have bowled well for us in recent years.”
He added, “Saim didn’t have the best day today, but he performed well in the T20Is. That’s just part of the game.”
The captain also noted that unpredictable weather and multiple rain delays made it difficult to read conditions.
“Honestly, the weather forecast has been completely different from expectations, and it’s hard to read. We’re keeping our options open and will finalize the XI after assessing the conditions.”
Pakistan had earlier secured the Twenty20 series against the West Indies 2-1, and now look to clinch the ODI series in the upcoming decider.
