Pakistan won the toss and elected to field first in the crucial third and final ODI against the West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Tarouba on Tuesday. Both teams made one change to their lineups, with Pakistan bringing in Naseem Shah for Shaheen Afridi, while the West Indies replaced Jediah Blades with Romario Shepherd.
Pakistan’s playing XI includes Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (captain/wicketkeeper), Salman Agha, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Hasan Ali, and Abrar Ahmed. The West Indies, led by Shai Hope, fielded Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Keacy Carty, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Justin Greaves, Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, and Jayden Seales.
Despite holding a dominant historical record against Pakistan, the West Indies have struggled in recent bilateral ODI series. Their last series win against Pakistan dates back to 1991, making this a crucial opportunity to break a 34-year drought. Pakistan, on the other hand, will aim to end their Caribbean tour on a high after securing the T20I series. However, their recent ODI form has been inconsistent, having suffered a 3-0 whitewash against New Zealand earlier this year.
The match promises an intense battle as both teams look to claim the series. Pakistan’s bowling attack, bolstered by Naseem Shah’s return, will test the West Indies’ batting lineup, while the hosts will rely on their power hitters to set or chase a competitive total. With pride and momentum at stake, the decider is set to be a thrilling contest in Tarouba.