Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan admitted uncertainty over their fifth bowling option following their five-wicket defeat to West Indies in the second ODI on Sunday. With the three-match series now level at 1-1, Rizwan said the team would assess conditions before finalizing their lineup for Tuesday’s decider. Part-time bowlers Saim Ayub and Salman Agha struggled in the rain-shortened match, conceding 66 runs in seven overs without taking a wicket, which proved costly in West Indies’ successful chase of 172.
Despite the setback, Rizwan defended the duo, pointing out their past contributions. “Salman and Saim have bowled well for us in recent years,” he said. “Saim had an off day, but he performed well in the T20Is. These things happen in cricket.” Pakistan had won the opening ODI by five wickets and also claimed the preceding T20I series 2-1, but the middle-order batting and fifth-bowler dilemma have emerged as concerns.
Rain interruptions further complicated Pakistan’s plans, disrupting their ability to gauge conditions accurately. “The weather forecast was unpredictable, and the delays made it tough to adjust,” Rizwan explained. The team will now analyze pitch and weather conditions before locking in their playing XI for the crucial final match.
With the series on the line, Pakistan must address their bowling balance while maintaining batting depth. Rizwan emphasized flexibility, stating, “We’re keeping our options open and will decide based on the conditions.” The decision could determine whether Pakistan secures another limited-overs series victory or allows West Indies to clinch an upset win.
