Saim Ayub’s Brilliant Fifty Helps Pakistan Set Up Victory in T20I Opener Against West Indies

In the opening T20 International of the Pakistan tour of West Indies, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 178 for 6, largely thanks to a composed and aggressive innings from opener Saim Ayub, who scored a brilliant 57 runs off 38 balls. That knock—featuring five fours and two sixes—set the tone for Pakistan’s innings and provided a solid foundation for the middle order.

Saim Ayub’s innings came at a strike rate of 150.00, showcasing intent and timing from the start. He reached his fifty with a well-timed drive over the ropes, followed by a six that brought up his landmark in style.

The left‑hander’s knock was the highest score of the innings and remained unbeaten until he was dismissed lbw by Jason Holder, who delivered a dipping slower yorker that struck Ayub on the toe in front of middle stump.

Apart from Ayub, key contributions came from Fakhar Zaman (28 off 24) and Hasan Nawaz (24 off 18), helping Pakistan reach a challenging total within the powerplay and middle overs 

In response, West Indies fell well short of the target, finishing on 164 for 7. Pakistan's bowlers, led by Mohammad Nawaz, who claimed three wickets in one over, restricted the hosts effectively and sealed a 14‑run victory 

This result also highlights West Indies’ ongoing T20I struggles—they now have only two wins in their last nineteen matches in the format 

Saim Ayub's performance

 his growing importance in Pakistan’s white‑ball setup. Known for his ability to accelerate scoring and hit boundaries frequently, his form comes at a crucial time as Pakistan seeks depth at the top of the order.

Match Summary

Team Innings Score Top Scorer Key Bowler Result

Pakistan 178/6 (20 overs) Saim Ayub 57 (38 balls) — —

West Indies 164/7 (20 overs) — Mohammad Nawaz 3 wickets Pakistan won by 14 runs

Key Takeaways

Saim Ayub’s half-century: His 57 off 38 balls was instrumental in building Pakistan’s total and showcased his growing role as an aggressive top-order batsman.

Effective Pakistan bowling: Mohammad Nawaz’s three-wicket over proved decisive, disrupting West Indies’ momentum.

West Indies continue poor form: With just two wins in their last 19 T20Is, West Indies remain under pressure in the shortest format.

Pakistan off to a strong start: The win in the first match sets a positive tone for the remaining two games of the series.

Saim Ayub's half-century and Pakistan’s balanced execution impressed in the series opener. With momentum now in their favour, Pakistan will look to build on this performance in the upcoming T20Is.