Rutherford, Chase lead West Indies to series-leveling win over Pakistan

TAROUBA: West Indies held their nerve to chase down a revised target of 181 in 35 overs, defeating Pakistan by five wickets in a rain-hit second ODI at the Brian Lara Stadium and leveling the series 1-1.

Pakistan, after being put in to bat, struggled to gain any momentum on a sluggish surface. Jayden Seales was the standout bowler, dismissing Saim Ayub and Babar Azam in quick succession during a devastating opening spell. Despite multiple rain interruptions, Pakistan limped to 171 for 7 in 37 overs. The final overs were lost to further rain, leaving Hasan Nawaz’s aggressive cameo unfulfilled.

In response, West Indies faced early trouble as Hasan Ali struck twice in his first two overs. Pakistan’s spinners then turned the screws, but the hosts found saviors in Sherfane Rutherford and Roston Chase. Rutherford’s attacking knock lifted the tempo, while Chase anchored the chase with composure, guiding his team home with ten balls to spare.

The final ODI now promises a thrilling decider, with the series finely poised.