Mohammad Rizwan speaks out after ODI series defeat against West Indies

Pakistan’s ODI captain Mohammad Rizwan shared his thoughts after the team’s defeat in the third and final ODI against West Indies at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Tuesday, which sealed a 2-1 series loss for the visitors.

Speaking during the post-match presentation, Rizwan acknowledged the difficulties of playing on a challenging pitch and reflected on the turning point of the game.

“We understood this was the third game given a Test across four innings was played on this deck. The momentum in the last 10 overs took it away as we were on top for the first 40 overs,” Rizwan said.

The wicketkeeper-batsman credited the West Indies for their strong finish, especially captain Shai Hope’s brilliant batting display.

“We thought 220 was chaseable here. The credit goes to them. Credit to Hope. The execution was good but the edges went in their favour. Hope batted well and played some good shots,” he added.

Rizwan explained that Pakistan’s bowlers, including part-timers Saim Ayub and Salman Ali Agha, performed well but could not stop Hope’s momentum.

“We had Ayub and Salman bowling. We thought Abrar would come and bowl. But Hope batted well and hence he didn't complete his overs,” he said.

He also praised West Indies pacer Jayden Seales, who took six wickets to dismantle Pakistan’s batting order, and admitted his side failed to form crucial partnerships.

“Seales was bowling well. He troubled us through the series. We needed partnerships and needed to spend some time,” Rizwan concluded.

The defeat ended Pakistan’s hopes of a first ODI series win over West Indies, while the Caribbean side celebrated their first ODI series triumph over Pakistan since 1991, breaking a 34-year drought.

In the series decider, West Indies posted 294 for 6 in 50 overs. Hope starred with 120 not out from 94 balls, hitting 10 fours and five sixes. Justin Greaves added 43 off 24 deliveries, and Evin Lewis (37) along with Roston Chase (36) also made valuable contributions.

Pakistan’s chase fell apart quickly as they were bowled out for 92 in 29.2 overs. Salman Ali Agha top-scored with 30, while Mohammad Nawaz was unbeaten on 23. Seales was the standout bowler with 6 for 18, while Gudakesh Motie took two wickets.