Bulawayo, December 01, 2024 – The Europe Today: Pakistan triumphed with a commanding 57-run victory against Zimbabwe in the first T20I of the three-match series at the Bulawayo Athletic Club. Pakistan’s bowlers shone brightly, dismantling Zimbabwe for just 108 runs in 15.3 overs, after the hosts were set a challenging target of 166.
Zimbabwe’s chase faltered early, losing two quick wickets for just 18 runs within the first three overs. Opener Tadiwanashe Marumani briefly revived hopes with an aggressive knock of 33 runs from 20 balls, including four boundaries and a six. Captain Sikandar Raza held the innings together with a patient 39, but Zimbabwe’s batting crumbled under pressure, ultimately collapsing from a stable 77/2 to 108 all out.
Pakistan’s bowlers led the charge, with Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem taking three wickets each. Haris Rauf added two vital wickets, while Jahandad Khan contributed with one. The comprehensive bowling attack left Zimbabwe unable to recover, ensuring Pakistan’s dominant win.
Earlier, Pakistan had elected to bat first, setting a competitive total of 165 runs. Despite an early setback with opener Omair Yousuf falling for 16, Usman Khan steadied the ship with a crucial 39. Contributions from Saim Ayub (24) and Salman Agha (13) provided the foundation, but it was the pivotal partnership between Tayyab Tahir (39) and Irfan Khan (27 from 15 balls) that propelled Pakistan to a challenging total.
Key Performances:
- Pakistan Bowling: Abrar Ahmed (3/19), Sufiyan Muqeem (3/22), Haris Rauf (2/21)
- Zimbabwe Batting: Sikandar Raza (39), Tadiwanashe Marumani (33)
Playing XIs:
Pakistan: Saim Ayub, Usman Khan (wk), Omair Yousuf, Salman Agha (c), Tayyab Tahir, Irfan Khan, Abbas Afridi, Jahandad Khan, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf.
Zimbabwe: Brain Bennett, Ryan Burl, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Tashinga Musekiwa, Richard Ngarava, Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (c), Wellington Masakadza.
Looking Ahead:
The second T20I of the series will be crucial as Zimbabwe looks to recover from this defeat, while Pakistan will be aiming for another strong performance to secure the series victory.
