
Pakistan and West Indies are gearing up for a compelling three-match ODI series, scheduled from 8 to 12 August 2025 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, Trinidad & Tobago. The series marks an important phase for both teams as they look to fine-tune their white-ball strategies ahead of major international tournaments. All three matches will be played as day/night fixtures, adding extra intrigue to how the pitch and conditions evolve across each game.
Pakistan enters the series with strong momentum, having secured a 2–1 win in the T20I leg. However, the format shift will test their adaptability. Their ODI squad is a well-balanced mix of experienced campaigners and exciting young prospects. Mohammad Rizwan will continue to lead the side, supported by key names such as Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Faheem Ashraf.
On the other side, West Indies will be looking to regroup after a narrow defeat in the T20I series. The return to home conditions will be an advantage, especially with a squad familiar with the nuances of Caribbean pitches and the twilight challenges of day/night matches. The hosts will look to start strong and avoid the slow beginnings that have cost them in the past.
One of the major talking points leading into the series is the absence of Fakhar Zaman, who has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury. While Pakistan won the T20I series without major contributions from Fakhar, his absence in the ODIs could be more significant. In 50-over cricket, Fakhar’s aggressive starts often give Pakistan a scoring cushion and set the tone for middle-order acceleration. Without him, the opening pair will have to bear additional pressure, especially against the new ball under lights.
The Brian Lara Cricket Academy is known for providing a fair contest between bat and ball. The pitch typically offers good bounce and carry early on, which should aid the seamers. As the matches progress into the evening, dew may play a role—something both teams will need to factor into their bowling and fielding plans. The venue’s modern infrastructure and history of hosting CPL and international fixtures add to its growing stature in West Indies cricket.
For Pakistan, Babar Azam’s consistency, Rizwan’s leadership, and Shaheen Afridi’s new-ball prowess will be critical. In Fakhar’s absence, younger players like Abdullah Shafique and Saim Ayub will have an opportunity to step up.
West Indies will rely heavily on Nicholas Pooran, Rovman Powell, and their all-rounders to create impact moments. Jason Holder’s experience, especially with the ball under lights, could prove pivotal in crunch situations.
With Pakistan looking to continue their winning run and West Indies eager to respond on home turf, the stage is set for a thrilling ODI series. Strategic depth, squad fitness, and how well teams adapt to changing conditions will likely determine the outcome. Both sides have much to prove, and with the spotlight on emerging talents and seasoned performers, cricket fans can expect three intense, closely contested encounters in Tarouba.