Predicting PAK’s Playing XI for the 2nd T20I Match against WI in Pakistan tour of West Indies 2025

Pakistan is currently ahead 1-0 in the T20I series after a 14-run win in Lauderhill thanks to a strong team performance and an impressive inning from Saim Ayub. This is a deciding game, and while Pakistan will look to finish the job, West Indies will look to reload and tie the series. Pakistan will likely keep the core of players that won on the day, with some minor tactical adjustments to get them over the line. Our prediction for the second T20I starting XI is as follows.

Openers

In the series opener, it was Saim Ayub who led the charge, his brilliant all-round contribution proving decisive for Pakistan. His knock of 57 off 38 balls at a strike rate of 150 not only gave Pakistan a blistering start but it showcased an improvement in temperament and shot selection by the left-handed batsman.

Sahibzada Farhan’s performance was average – 14 from 12 balls. He was not explosive, but he seemed comfortable before being there LBW to Joseph. With a decent domestic season behind him and being able to find gaps early, Farhan is expected to get another opportunity in the second match, even if, after Hasan Nawaz, the selectors are expected to reshuffle the top order, if changes are to be made.

Middle Order

Fakhar Zaman came in at number 5 and had a good contribution of 28 runs in 24 balls, while benefiting from a good partnership with Ayub. Zaman’s left-handed aggressive batting, especially through the off-side, could easily unsettle any attacking bowling side, even the Windies. His experience will again be a great benefit in facing the middle overs.

Salman Agha, captain of the side, played his usual calm, methodical game in tough situations, playing an unbeaten 11 – it may not have been flashy, but it was just what was needed to complete Pakistan’s innings without a meltdown.

All-Rounders

Mohammad Nawaz proved he can be fully utilized through his excellent performance of 4-0-23-3 and taking an early wicket. He even batted a little, scoring 9, and had a strike rate well over 110 – he showed intent. Combine that power-hitting with being able to restrict runs with his left-arm spin, and you have a game-changer in any format.

In contrast, Faheem Ashraf was not very impactful, but I don’t think he is a bad player. His bowling was the other side of the scale, 31 runs from just 2 overs. His batting, at least quick, 15 (9), was somewhat redeeming. He is almost worth selecting for his hit-and-fit around the death overs, but it would be hard to see him hang on to his spot if the side wanted to bring in another spinner or fast bowler.

Bowlers

Shaheen Shah Afridi was both economical and lethal with the ball; he finished with 1/27 off 4 overs. With the ability to swing the ball up top and then bang out yorkers at the death, he is a genuine contender to be Pakistan’s front-line man. His wicket of Roston Chase at a pivotal time ensured that Pakistan kept the upper hand in the match.

Sufiyan Muqeem’s 1/20 did more than simply present the most value of Pakistan’s front-line bowlers about runs; he also bowled the cheapest overs. The left-arm wrist spinner squeezed the West Indian batters in the middle overs, while also picking up an important wicket.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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