Pakistan’s ODI series against the West Indies ended in complete disaster, with Mohammad Rizwan’s men suffering a humiliating 202-run defeat in the deciding match at Tarouba. Chasing 295, the visitors folded for just 92 in 29.2 overs — a dramatic collapse after starting the series with a comfortable five-wicket win in the opener.
Early Collapse Shatters Hopes
The batting disaster began right from the start. Within the first three overs, openers Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, and captain Rizwan were all dismissed without scoring. Babar Azam fell soon after for just 9, while Salman Agha’s 30 was the only notable contribution before the innings came to a close.
West Indies pacer Jayden Seales was ruthless, ripping through Pakistan’s lineup with stunning figures of 6/18 in 7.2 overs.
Former Cricketers React with Fury
The defeat triggered harsh criticism from ex-Pakistan players. Shoaib Akhtar slammed the team’s overreliance on flat, batting-friendly pitches back home. But Basit Ali’s reaction went a step further — blunt, and dripping with frustration.
Speaking on The Game Plan YouTube channel, Basit said he hopes India refuse to play Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup, citing both political tensions and the team’s current form.
“I pray India refuse to play against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, just like they did at the World Championships of Legends. Itni buri tarah maarenge na vo, ki aapki soch hai (They’ll beat us so badly you can’t even imagine),” Basit remarked.
“Even Afghanistan Could Beat Us”
The host joked that Pakistan’s performances suggest they could struggle against Afghanistan. Basit’s response was telling:
“If we lose to Afghanistan, no one would care much here. But the moment you lose to India, everyone loses their mind.”
Asia Cup in T20 Format – A Glimmer of Hope?
While the ODI defeat was humiliating, the Asia Cup will be played in the T20 format — a version in which Pakistan has looked stronger. Recently, they edged out West Indies 2-1 in a T20I series under Salman Agha’s captaincy, with neither Babar Azam nor Rizwan in the squad. That trend is likely to continue in the Asia Cup.
The tournament, to be held in the UAE, will serve as preparation for next year’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
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