Pakistan vs West Indies 3rd ODI 2025: Rizwan Chooses to Bowl in Series Decider
Pakistan chose to bowl first in the decisive third ODI against West Indies in Tarouba. With the series tied 1-1, captain Mohammad Rizwan called for a strong comeback after a flat second-game performance. He also downplayed the toss, saying it would not be the deciding factor.
One Change for Each Team
Pakistan made one alteration from the last match. Naseem Shah replaced Shaheen Afridi as part of their pace rotation plan. Part-time spinners will again take the fifth bowling role, a tactic used earlier in the series when reverse swing proved useful.
West Indies also made a single change. Romario Shepherd came in for Jediah Blades, adding more seam-bowling depth alongside Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales. Captain Shai Hope noted that both previous games were won by the chasing side.
Conditions and Weather Forecast
At the start, Tarouba had clear skies. However, a short rain shower is expected midway through the first innings. This could make conditions tricky and change the flow of the game.
Momentum has shifted quickly in this series. Pakistan won the first ODI by five wickets. West Indies matched that result in the second. Before this, Pakistan also claimed the T20I series 2-1 in Florida.
Playing XIs
West Indies: Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Keacy Carty, Shai Hope (capt & wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Justin Greaves, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales.
Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (capt & wk), Salman Agha, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Hasan Ali, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmad.
High Stakes in the Decider
With the series on the line, both sides know the value of a strong start. Pakistan will aim to make early inroads with the ball. West Indies will look for a fast, attacking opening partnership. The powerplay overs could decide the match’s direction.
