News Desk
- Matthew Forde ruled out with dislocated shoulder injury
- Johann Layne replaces Forde in ODI squad
- Rain, thunderstorms may disrupt ODI series opener
ISLAMABAD: The West Indies have suffered a significant setback ahead of the opening One-Day International (ODI) of their three-match series against Pakistan, which is set to begin today at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed through its official social media channels that fast bowler Matthew Forde has been ruled out of the series due to a shoulder injury. The 23-year-old dislocated his left shoulder while attempting a catch during a training session on Wednesday.
INJURY UPDATE 🚨
West Indies Academy pacer Johann Layne will replace Matthew Forde in the squad for the three matches against Pakistan starting on Friday.
Forde dislocated his left shoulder while attempting a catch during Wednesday’s training session. #WIvsPAK | #MenInMaroon pic.twitter.com/NvMcRBUAKI
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) August 7, 2025
In Forde’s absence, uncapped academy pacer Johann Layne has been called up as his replacement for the series.
Pakistan, fresh off a 2-1 win in the T20I series against the West Indies, will be aiming to carry that momentum and confidence into the 50-over format.
Cloudy skies
However, the opening match could be affected by poor weather. Forecasts predict mostly cloudy skies with a high of 31°C. Taking humidity into account, it may feel as hot as 37°C, with a RealFeel Shade™ of around 34°C.
Scattered showers are expected throughout the day, including brief spells in the morning followed by lighter rain in the afternoon. The total rainfall is expected to be around 4.5 mm over 2.5 hours. There is an 82 per cent chance of rain and a 24 per cent probability of thunderstorms, so spectators are advised to come prepared.
Winds are forecast to come from the east-northeast at 11 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 35 km/h, adding to the uncertainty of the conditions.
All three ODIs in the series will be played at the same venue, with the second and third matches scheduled for 10 and 12 August respectively.
Historically, the West Indies hold a slight edge over Pakistan in ODI encounters. Out of 137 matches, the Caribbean side has emerged victorious 71 times, while Pakistan has won 63. Three matches have ended with no result.
Updated West Indies ODI squad: Shai Hope (captain), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Johann Layne, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, and Romario Shepherd.
