In a dramatic start to the Pakistan tour of West Indies (and USA), Pakistan clinched the 1st T20I at Lauderhill, Florida on 31 July 2025, defeating the West Indies by 14 runs. The win gave Pakistan a 1–0 lead in the three‑match T20I series.

After West Indies skipper Shai Hope chose to field first, Pakistan posted a competitive 178 for 6 in their 20 overs, largely thanks to an excellent 57 off 38 balls by Saim Ayub, whose aggressive innings featured five boundaries and two sixes  . Support came from Fakhar Zaman, contributing a steady 28 from 24 balls to anchor the innings.

In response, the West Indies faltered on a tricky pitch, finishing at 164 for 7 with 20 overs completed   . Mohammad Nawaz emerged as Pakistan’s standout bowler, delivering a pivotal 3 wickets for 23 runs in four overs, while Saim Ayub added two more wickets for just 20 runs  . Shamar Joseph picked up three wickets for the home side but couldn’t stem the run flow late in the innings  .

Player of the Match went to Saim Ayub, recognized for his dual contributions with both bat and ball-an outstanding all‑round impact on the series opener   .

This victory sets the tone for the upcoming 2nd and 3rd T20Is scheduled on 2 and 3 August at the same Lauderhill venue  . Pakistan’s performance will boost confidence ahead of the ODI series starting 8 August in Trinidad.

As Pakistan takes an early lead, West Indies must regroup quickly and tighten both batting and bowling if they are to stay in contention. With momentum firmly on Pakistan’s side, all eyes now turn to whether they can seal the series at 2–0.