Pakistan struggle early in second ODI against West Indies

Pakistan’s batting lineup faced early pressure in the second One-Day International (ODI) against the West Indies, managing only 60 runs for the loss of two wickets at the end of 16, 24NewsHD TV reported on Sunday. 

Opening batsman Saim Ayub scored 23 runs off 31 balls before being dismissed, while skipper Babar Azam fell without scoring.

The early wickets have put Pakistan on the back foot as they look to build a competitive total.

 Earlier, West Indies' captain Shai Hope won the toss and opted to bowl first against Pakistan, citing weather conditions and moisture on the pitch as key factors in the decision.

The hosts were aiming to restrict Pakistan to a modest score and level the series with a strong performance.

Speaking at the toss, West Indies captain said the team aimed to restrict Pakistan to a low total by taking advantage of the conditions. 

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan expressed confidence in his side’s abilities, highlighting the team’s strong showing in the first ODI.

“The boys played really well in the opening match. Mohammad Nawaz has delivered exceptional performances over the past two years, and it’s encouraging to see young players joining the squad and performing well,” Rizwan said.

Pakistan made three changes to their lineup for this match. Hasan Ali, Mohammad Abrar, and Mohammad Nawaz have been included, while Faheem Ashraf, Sufyan Muqeem, and Naseem Shah have been rested.

The second ODI offers Pakistan a chance to secure the series with back-to-back wins, while West Indies will be determined to bounce back and force a decider.

Pakistan leads the series 1-0 in the 3-match series.

Playing XIs

Pakistan:

 1 Abdullah Shafique, 2 Saim Ayub, 3 Babar Azam, 4 Mohammad Rizwan (capt, wk), 5 Salman Agha, 6 Hasan Nawaz, 7 Hussain Talat, 8 Mohammad Nawaz, 9 Shaheen Afridi, 10 Hasan Ali, 11 Abrar Ahmad
 
West Indies:

1 Brandon King, 2 Evin Lewis, 3 Keacy Carty, 4 Shai Hope (Capt, wk), 5 Sherfane Rutherford, 6 Roston Chase, 7 Justin Greaves, 8 Gudakesh Motie, 9 Shamar Joseph, 10 Jayden Seales, 11 Jediah Blades