Key points
- Heavy rain and thunderstorms threaten to overshadow the opening ODI
- With Joseph rested, West Indies turn to Jediah Blades and Shepherd in a must-win home series
ISLAMABAD: The lush greens of the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba are poised to come alive with the clash of cricketing titans, as Pakistan and West Indies prepare to lock horns in the opening One Day International (ODI) of a much-anticipated three-match series on Thursday.
However, while fans eagerly await the contest, the skies may have other plans.
Fresh from a 2-1 T20I series victory over the Caribbean side, Pakistan strides into the ODI arena with momentum on its side and confidence brimming in the camp. Captain Mohammad Rizwan and his men will be aiming to carry that rhythm into the 50-over format, seeking both dominance, and crucial ranking points. But it is not just West Indies’ fiery pace and flair that Pakistan will have to overcome—the real challenge may come from above.
According to AccuWeather forecasts, dark clouds are expected to gather over Trinidad, with light to heavy showers threatening to drench the action. Rain is expected forecast both before and after the scheduled start, with a high 82 per cent chance of precipitation and a 24 per cent risk of thunderstorms casting a gloomy shadow over the series opener.
Humidity will add a layer of discomfort for both players and spectators alike, with a RealFeel temperature soaring to 37 degrees centigrade (°C)—despite an actual high of 31°C. The stadium’s atmosphere is expected to be heavy and overcast, with 78 per cent cloud cover and a low AccuLumen Brightness Index of just 4—rated “Dull.”
Wind, clouds and chances
With gusts reaching up to 35-kilomtres per hour from the east-northeast, the conditions may well be tailor-made for swing bowlers, especially those who thrive in overcast weather. Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi and youngster Naseem Shah may relish the opportunity if the new ball swings in the humid air.
On the other side, West Indies will be without their pace spearhead Alzarri Joseph, who continues to be rested to manage his workload. But all-rounder Romario Shepherd returns to bolster the squad, bringing experience and late-order muscle. Rookie left-arm seamer Jediah Blades, just 23 and with only one ODI under his belt, is expected to open the bowling, with coach Daren Sammy backing him to shine in home conditions.
Old rivals, new stakes
The two cricketing nations share a rich and competitive history—having faced off in 137 ODIs. West Indies hold a slight edge with 71 victories, while Pakistan follows closely with 63 wins. Three encounters have ended without a result.
For the West Indies, this series carries weight beyond pride. Currently ranked 10th in ODIs and having suffered a clean sweep against England earlier this year, the hosts are desperate for ranking points in their push to qualify directly for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
“Pakistan presents a different test and challenge,” head coach Daren Sammy said ahead of the opener. “Matches against higher-ranked teams like them are invaluable as we aim to climb the ladder.”
Weather permitting
The stage is set or at least, trying to be. With all three matches (August 8, 10, and 12) slated to be played at the same venue, the Brian Lara Cricket Academy will be under the spotlight not just for the cricket, but also for its ability to withstand the tropical downpours expected this week.
As fans across the globe prepare to tune in, one question looms large over this much-awaited contest: will the rain relent, or will the weather play spoilsport? Only time, and the skies over Tarouba, will tell.
