Pakistan put in a complete team performance to defeat the West Indies by 13 runs in the third and final T20I at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium, Lauderhill, clinching the series 2-1. Half-centuries from openers Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub laid the foundation, while a disciplined effort by the bowlers thwarted the hosts’ late fightback.
After electing to bat first, Pakistan raced away thanks to a dynamic 138-run opening stand between Farhan (74 off 53 balls) and Ayub (66 off 49). The pair set the tone early with 47 runs in the powerplay and continued their aggressive approach, bringing up their half-centuries in commanding fashion.
Happy to contribute with runs and towards the win. Conditions were similar to last night, but I planned with Saim to play with positive intent and not spare any loose deliveries. We complement each other well, and he guides me too.
After Farhan’s dismissal in the 17th over, Pakistan added 51 runs in the final 22 balls. Hasan Nawaz hit a quickfire 15 off 7 balls, while Khushdil Shah (11* off 6) and Faheem Ashraf (10* off 3) chipped in with late cameos to help Pakistan post a formidable 189/4.
West Indies fall short despite Rutherford, Athanaze fight
In response, the West Indies got off to a flying start with 33 runs in the first two overs, thanks to Alick Athanaze and Jewel Andrew. However, Haris Rauf pegged them back by removing Andrew for 24 (15). Player of the series Mohammad Nawaz followed it up with the wicket of Shai Hope for 7.
Athanaze (60) and Sherfane Rutherford (51) tried to steady the innings with valuable partnerships, but wickets at crucial junctures halted their momentum. Roston Chase and Rutherford’s 39-run stand revived hopes briefly, but Sufyan Moqim’s key wicket of Jason Holder for a duck effectively closed the door on the West Indies.
The way the spinners bowled was outstanding. Sufiyan brought us back, Haris bowled well, Faheem and Hasan showed great character in the last over. It was amazing to see that. Sufiyan and Abrar are very, very big assets for us.
West Indies captain Shai Hope admitted his side fell short in execution. “I commend the bowlers for their effort throughout the series. We talk about consistency and execution — that's what separates teams. Alick’s class stood out today, but we need that intent from everyone,” he said.
Pakistan’s bowlers shared the spoils, with each of the six bowlers picking up a wicket, barring Faheem Ashraf. Despite a late push by Gudakesh Motie (10* off 4), West Indies finished at 176/6 — 13 runs short.
Brief Scores: Pakistan 189/4 in 20 overs (Farhan 74, Ayub 66; Chase 1-31) West Indies 176/6 in 20 overs (Athanaze 60, Rutherford 51; Moqim 1-20, Nawaz 1-33) Result: Pakistan won by 13 runs; win series 2-1.
