PAK vs WI | Nicholas Pooran tries his arm, picks a rare four-fer

Nicholas Pooran's pedigree to score rapidly in any game situation is never questioned, but in a rare occurrence, the West Indies captain tried his arm for a full quota of 10 overs against Pakistan in the third match of the three-match ODI series at Multan on June 12.

Not only did he chanced his arm for a complete spell, but he also picked up four crucial wickets, including that of the openers. In a remarkable bowling display, the left-handed keeper-batter finished the match with the bowling figures of 10-0-4-48.

Pooran, who made his domestic debut in February 2013 and his international debut in September 2016, had bowled just a total of nine deliveries throughout his competitive career before the game against Pakistan. 

Before the third ODI against Pakistan, the Trinidadian’s only domestic wicket came in one of the five first-class games he played between the years 2014 and 2020.

In a remarkable decision, the Windies captain decided to chance his own arm against the rampaging Pakistani batters on their own turf. A couple of hours later, he became the recipient of four international wickets, also the only set of wickets of his international career. 

Needless to say, his 4-48 are now his best bowling figures across all formats as he ended up quintupling his wickets tally.   

Despite Pooran's best efforts with the ball, his side ended up second on the field as hosts Pakistan took home the three-match ODI series 3-0.

As we advance, one can expect to see much more Pooran trying on his right-arm spin in the middle. At best, West Indies will get a genuine all-rounder. And at worst, the Caribbean will get a decent bowler who can at least contain batters from increasing their scoring rate.