Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan has shed light on the factors that contributed to his team’s five-wicket loss to the West Indies in the second One Day International (ODI) of the series. The defeat, which came after a rain-affected 37-over match, leaves the three-match series tied at 1-1 ahead of the decider.
After winning the first ODI by five wickets, Pakistan set a competitive target of 172 runs in the second match. However, the bowling attack fell short in defending it, with part-time bowlers Saim Ayub and Salman Agha conceding a costly 66 runs in just seven overs without taking a wicket.
“You could say our fifth bowler gave away too many runs, but in recent years, Salman Agha and Saim Ayub have both bowled well for us,” Rizwan told reporters after the match. “Saim didn’t have the best day today, but he performed well in the T20Is. That’s just part of the game.”
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Rizwan also pointed out that unpredictable weather and frequent rain interruptions played a role in disrupting Pakistan’s plans. “Honestly, the weather forecast has been completely different from expectations, and it’s hard to read,” he said.
Looking ahead to the deciding match, Rizwan confirmed that the team management will keep their options open and make final decisions after assessing the conditions on the day.
Pakistan had earlier clinched the T20I series 2-1, but the ODI trophy will now be decided in the third and final match of the series.
