Hasan Nawaz announced himself on the international stage in style on Friday, smashing an unbeaten 63 on debut to guide Pakistan to a thrilling five-wicket victory over West Indies in the first One-Day International of their series.
The visitors chased down a target of 281 with seven balls to spare, thanks to a match-winning, unbroken 104-run sixth-wicket stand between Nawaz and Hussain Talat in the day-night clash. Game two is scheduled for Sunday, followed by the series finale on Tuesday.
💥 Nawaz and Talat Seal the Deal
Chasing 281, Pakistan found themselves under pressure after Mohammad Rizwan (53) was trapped LBW by Shamar Joseph in the 38th over, still needing 101 runs. But Nawaz, playing with poise and confidence, took charge.
The 20-year-old left-hander hit:
- 63 off 54 balls*, including 3 sixes and 5 fours
- The winning boundary off the final delivery of the 49th over
Talat supported brilliantly with 41 not out off 37 balls, including 1 six and 4 fours, helping steer Pakistan home from a tricky position.
🏏 West Indies Set the Tone Early
After losing the toss, West Indies were put in to bat and posted 280 all out:
- Evin Lewis top-scored with 60 (62 balls), hitting 3 sixes and 5 fours
- Shai Hope (55) and Roston Chase (53) added valuable half-centuries
However, despite a solid platform, the Windies struggled to accelerate in the later stages, losing key wickets at regular intervals.
🔥 Shaheen, Naseem Lead Pakistan’s Attack
Shaheen Shah Afridi struck early, removing Brandon King in the opening over and finishing with 4 wickets.
Naseem Shah wrapped up the innings with three late breakthroughs, dismissing Roston Chase, Gudakesh Motie, and Jediah Blades in a clinical final spell.
📅 What’s Next?
- 2nd ODI: Sunday
- 3rd ODI: Tuesday
With Pakistan now leading the series 1-0, all eyes will be on the hosts to bounce back in the next clash — while Hasan Nawaz’s dream start gives Pakistan fans much to cheer about.
