Bulawayo: Defending a modest total of 205, Zimbabwe needed a dream start with the ball – and they delivered in style. Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava set the tone from the outset, maintaining tight, probing lines that kept the Pakistani batters on the edge.
Muzarabani struck gold early, removing both openers in quick succession, paving the way for the spinners to take control. Both Sikandar Raza and Sean Williams capitalized on the momentum, dismantling Pakistan’s middle order with precision and reducing them to a precarious 58/6, leaving the visitors reeling before the covers came on. The game was finally called off and Zimbabwe pulling off a stunning upset, defeating Pakistan by 80 runs via the DLS method.
Zimbabwe’s disciplined and spirited bowling effort in just 21 overs delivered a clear statement of intent, leaving the visitors shell-shocked. Taking a 1-0 lead in this three-match series, the hosts have drawn first blood in style with a thoroughly deserved victory.
Earlier in the game, Zimbabwe burst out of the gates with an aggressive and positive approach, spearheaded by the dynamic opening duo of Joylord Gumbie and Tadiwanashe Marumani. However, a costly mix-up triggered a dramatic collapse, with wickets tumbling in quick succession.
Despite a few batters getting promising starts, none could capitalize, leaving Zimbabwe on shaky ground. Then came a gritty 62-run partnership between Sikandar Raza and Richard Ngarava, injecting much-needed momentum and pushing the team to a competitive total of 205 before being bowled out.
For Pakistan, Salman Agha and debutant Faisal Akram were the stars with the ball, claiming three wickets apiece.
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