Pakistan wrapped up an electrifying T20I series against the West Indies with a thrilling 13-run win in the final match, sealing the series 2-1 in front of a roaring home crowd. The contest, packed with tension and drama, showcased high-quality cricket from both sides, but it was Pakistan’s composure and strategic brilliance in the closing overs that proved decisive.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan got off to a steady start. Captain Babar Azam once again anchored the innings with a graceful 62 off 45 balls, blending elegance with aggression. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, the hosts managed to keep the run rate healthy, thanks to a late burst from Iftikhar Ahmed, who smashed 32 off just 15 balls, pushing Pakistan to a competitive total of 178 for 7.
The West Indies response was fierce. Their top-order batters came out all guns blazing, with Brandon King and Nicholas Pooran forging a dangerous 72-run stand that threatened to tilt the game in the visitors’ favor. However, Pakistan’s bowling attack rose to the challenge under pressure.
Shaheen Shah Afridi produced a sensational spell at the death, claiming crucial wickets and delivering unplayable yorkers. Naseem Shah, equally lethal with his pace and accuracy, choked the run flow and dismissed the well-set Pooran, turning the game dramatically in Pakistan’s favor. Spinner Shadab Khan also contributed with a key breakthrough, showing Pakistan’s all-round strength.
The West Indies faltered in the final overs, unable to cope with the mounting pressure and disciplined bowling. They were eventually bowled out for 165, falling 13 runs short of the target.
Captain Babar Azam lauded the team’s fighting spirit after the match. “It was a complete team performance. Everyone stepped up at the right time — the middle order delivered, and the bowlers held their nerves under pressure,” he said.
The series win serves as a timely confidence booster for Pakistan as they prepare for upcoming international assignments and eye the T20 World Cup on the horizon. The depth in both batting and bowling departments was evident, with multiple players contributing at crucial moments.
Fans celebrated the victory across the country, taking to social media to hail the team’s resilience and passion. Cricket pundits praised Pakistan for showing maturity and tactical sharpness, particularly in crunch moments.
With this series win, Pakistan reasserts its dominance in the T20 format and sends a strong message to global rivals: they remain a force to be reckoned with in world cricket.
