Salman Agha Reflects on Pakistan’s Performance After T20I Loss

LAUDERHILL: Following Pakistan’s narrow two-wicket defeat to the West Indies in the second T20I, Pakistan’s T20I captain, Salman Ali Agha, conveyed a sense of optimism regarding the Asia Cup 2025 scheduled for September. The loss resulted in the three-match series being leveled at 1-1 on Sunday at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium Turf Ground.

During the post-match press briefing, Agha Salman shared his thoughts on the team’s overall showing, while also recognizing areas needing improvement, particularly in their batting performance.

“In this match, our batting during the powerplay wasn’t up to par, and we also fell short of finishing the game as planned. However, our bowling and fielding were commendable,” Agha stated.

The all-rounder further pinpointed specific aspects requiring refinement, notably death bowling, and lauded the spinners’ efforts as they prepare for the approaching Asia Cup.

“There is always scope for improvement; our death bowling can be more effective. A score of 130 was insufficient, but the team displayed great resilience. Considering the spinners’ performance in both matches, I believe we are well-prepared for the Asia Cup. The fans consistently show their support wherever we compete,” he added.

Notably, the West Indies clinched a thrilling victory in the match’s final over.

In pursuit of a modest 134-run target, the hosts faced early challenges, with Mohammad Nawaz dismissing Alick Athanaze for two in the second over and Jewel Andrew (12 off 10) in the fourth, leaving West Indies at 26-2 by the fourth over.

Nawaz struck again, removing captain Shai Hope (21 off 30), further compounding the home side’s difficulties at 53-4 in the 11th over. Saim Ayub added to the pressure by dismissing Roston Chase (16), securing his second wicket.

With 36 runs needed from the final three overs, Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd maintained their composure. Holder capitalized on a favorable over from Hasan Ali, pulling the hosts back into contention.

Despite Shaheen Afridi dismissing Shepherd (15 off 11) in the final over, Holder remained composed, securing the win with a boundary off the last delivery, remaining unbeaten on 16 off 10 balls.

Nawaz stood out as Pakistan’s top bowler, recording impressive figures of 3-14 in four overs. Saim Ayub contributed with 2-20, while Sufiyan Muqeem and Shaheen Afridi each claimed one wicket.

Earlier, after choosing to bat first, Pakistan experienced an unstable start. Saim Ayub (7) and Sahibzada Farhan (3) were both dismissed by Jason Holder, while Akeal Hosein accounted for Mohammad Haris (4), leaving Pakistan struggling at 21-3.

Fakhar Zaman (20) and Agha Salman attempted a brief recovery before Gudakesh Motie struck again. Salman anchored the innings with a composed 38 off 33 balls and formed a 60-run partnership with Hassan Nawaz, who injected late momentum with a quickfire 40.

The series’ decisive match will take place at the same venue on August 4.