Mohammad Nawaz’s Hat-trick Leads Pakistan to a 14-run Victory Over West Indies in Florida T20 Clash

In a thrilling start to the three-match T20 series between Pakistan and the West Indies held at Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground in Lauderhill, Florida, Pakistan clinched a 14-run victory in the first game on August 1, 2025.

Batting first, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 178 for six, spearheaded by Saim Ayub’s impressive 57 runs off 38 balls. The challenging pitch forced players to prioritize building steady partnerships without panic, as highlighted by Ayub, who was later named player of the match for his all-round performance including bowling figures of 2-20.

West Indies began their chase confidently with openers Johnson Charles and debutant 18-year-old Jewel Andrew putting on a 72-run stand, scoring at a brisk rate exceeding six runs per over by the halfway mark. However, the game-changer was Pakistan left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz.

Nawaz transformed the contest dramatically by taking three wickets in a single over (the 12th), dismissing Andrew for 35, Charles also for 35, and Gudakesh Motie for a duck within the span of five deliveries. This collapse swiftly shifted momentum as West Indies slumped to 75-3.

Adding to the West Indies’ woes, skipper Shai Hope fell cheaply for two runs soon after, scooping a full delivery by Ayub and being caught deep, resulting in four wickets falling for just five runs. Despite a solid start, the West Indies could not recover from the middle-order collapse, ultimately falling short by 14 runs.

The match came shortly after West Indies endured a heavy defeat against Australia in a five-match T20I series played in the Caribbean, accentuating the urgency for the home team to regain form. Both teams, coming off contrasting series outcomes, showcased competitive spirit at the Florida venue.

This victory gives Pakistan the lead in the series as they prepare for the upcoming matches, looking to leverage their bowling strength and meaningful batting contributions. The next T20 encounters are highly anticipated by cricket fans eager to see how West Indies will respond battling from behind.