Florida( The COW News Digital)West Indies defeated Pakistan by two wickets in a nail-biting second T20 International, leveling the three-match series 1-1 in Florida on Saturday morning (Pakistan time). The dramatic finish came down to the final delivery, with the Caribbean side chasing down a modest 134-run target set by the visitors.
Pakistan, after winning the toss, elected to bat first on a surface that offered early grip and bounce. The innings saw a cautious start, with opener Hassan Nawaz playing a crucial knock of 40 runs to anchor the innings. Captain Salman Ali Agha contributed a steady 38, while Fakhar Zaman chipped in with 20 runs.
West Indies’ bowling attack, led by the experienced Jason Holder, kept the Pakistani batters in check throughout. Holder finished with impressive figures of 4 for 19, wreaking havoc in the middle overs. Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie also played a key role, picking up 2 wickets for 39 runs.
In response, the West Indies chase was far from smooth. Pakistani bowlers, particularly in the middle overs, kept building pressure. However, a late recovery led by Motie, who remained unbeaten on 28, and captain Shai Hope’s composed 21, proved decisive. Roston Chase and Jason Holder also contributed with 16 runs each.
The match went down to the wire, with West Indies requiring 4 runs off the final over. A boundary off the last ball ensured the hosts clinched a thrilling win and leveled the series, setting up a mouth-watering decider.
Pakistan’s bowlers showed discipline, but the lack of defending a par total once again raised questions about their finishing abilities in tight games. Despite moments of brilliance in the field and tight overs from Shadab Khan and Naseem Shah, the West Indies lower order held their nerve under pressure.
With the series now tied 1-1, all eyes are on the third and final match, which promises to be a high-stakes contest between two unpredictable sides with explosive potential.
The closely-fought contest has once again highlighted the thrilling nature of T20 cricket and the fine margins that often decide the outcome.
