Saim Ayub’s all-round show powers Pakistan to victory in T20I opener against West Indies

Saim led the charge with a composed knock of 57 runs from 38 balls, including five fours and two sixes

PHOTO: AP

Pakistan started their T20I series against the West Indies on a winning note, securing a 14-run victory in the opening match at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium on Friday.

Batting first, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 178-6. Saim Ayub led the charge with a composed knock of 57 runs from 38 balls, including five fours and two sixes. He shared an important 81-run partnership with Fakhar Zaman, who contributed 28 off 24 balls.

Earlier, openers Saim and Sahibzada Farhan gave Pakistan a decent start, adding 26 runs before Farhan was dismissed for 14. After Fakhar and Saim built a solid platform, wickets fell at regular intervals. Middle-order batter Hassan Nawaz impressed with a quick 24 off 18 balls, while Mohammad Haris gave the innings a strong finish by hitting a six off the final delivery.

For the West Indies, Shamar Joseph had a good return with figures of 3-30, while Akeal Hosein, Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd also picked up wickets.

In reply, West Indies looked strong early on, reaching 47 without loss in the powerplay. Debutant Jewel Andrew and Johnson Charles added 72 runs for the first wicket, both scoring 35 runs each. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the 12th over when Mohammad Nawaz took three wickets in five balls, reducing the hosts from 72-0 to 75-3.

Soon after, Saim Ayub struck with his very first over to remove captain Shai Hope. He later dismissed Sherfane Rutherford as well, putting Pakistan in full control. Shaheen Afridi and Sufiyan Muqeem added to the pressure with one wicket each.

Jason Holder gave the West Indies some hope with an unbeaten 30 off just 12 balls, while Shamar Joseph added 21. Despite their efforts, the home side fell short, finishing on 164-7.

Mohammad Nawaz was the standout bowler for Pakistan, finishing with 3-23 in four overs. Saim Ayub also impressed with the ball, claiming 2-20.

With this win, Pakistan take a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. The second match will be played on Sunday.