Pakistan, West Indies playing 3rd ODI today at St Lucia
West Indies have resisted the temptation to ring the changes and go into the third One-Day International of the five-match series against Pakistan today in St Lucia with the same squad that shared the honours with the visitors over the first two matches in Guyana.
The mercurial nature of both sides has been on display in the two matches so far. Pakistan demolished the hosts in a crushing 126-run win in the opening ODI with all-rounder Shahid Afridi marking his comeback to the side in grand fashion.
However, the second game saw the tourists return to mediocrity with West Indies helping themselves to a 37-run win to level the series.
While Pakistan enjoy a good record at the Gros Islet, winning all their previous three encounters, their poor batting form – the team has played out 50 overs just once in their last five ODIs – and the top-order’s continued failure to contribute substantially has been a constant worry and may even be a threat for the team’s unconquered record at the venue.
According to an official close to the team management, Pakistan have planned an extensive practice programme on the eve of the important match.
