Pakistan Elect to Field First in ODI Series Opener Against West Indies – Hassan Nawaz Makes Debut
Pakistan has chosen to bowl first in the opening One-Day International against the West Indies at the Brian Lara International Cricket Stadium, kicking off what promises to be a high-intensity series.
The match marks a special milestone for young batting sensation Hassan Nawaz, who steps into ODI cricket following an explosive start in the T20 format. His inclusion adds a fresh spark to Pakistan’s line-up as they aim to set the tone early in the three-match series.
Skipper Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and opted to put the West Indies in to bat. A bold call. “For Pakistan, Hassan Nawaz made his ODI debut after a blistering start in the T20Is,” confirmed team sources ahead of the clash.
For the hosts, this series carries weight far beyond the scoreboard. The West Indies are fighting to secure direct qualification for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, which will be staged in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Every run, every wicket counts.
The mood is competitive. The air tense. Both sides know a strong start could shape the entire series.
Pakistan’s Playing XI:
Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (capt, wk), Salman Agha, Hassan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem.
West Indies’ Playing XI:
Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (capt, wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales, Jediah Blades.
With Hassan Nawaz set for his first taste of ODI cricket, fans back home and abroad will be eager to see if he can replicate his T20 fireworks on the longer stage. The series begins under Caribbean sun, but the heat is just as fierce off the pitch.
