Pakistan Claims Victory in T20I Tri-Series Opener
In a gripping encounter at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan emerged victorious against Zimbabwe, clinching a five-wicket win in the inaugural match of the T20I Tri-Series. Despite facing challenges throughout both innings, Pakistan successfully chased down a target of 148 runs, thanks to significant contributions from Fakhar Zaman (44 runs), Usman Khan (37 not out), and Mohammad Nawaz (21 runs), finishing the match with four balls to spare.
Zimbabwe’s Strong Start Wasted
After winning the toss, Pakistan’s captain Salman Agha opted to bowl first, putting his team under immediate pressure. Zimbabwe’s opening pair, Brian Bennett (49 runs) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (30 runs), established a solid partnership, propelling their team to 70 runs within the first eight overs. However, the introduction of spin bowling led to a dramatic downturn in their innings. Mohammad Nawaz (2 wickets for 22 runs) spearheaded the bowling attack, causing a collapse that resulted in Zimbabwe losing wickets rapidly. Despite a resilient unbeaten 34 from skipper Sikandar Raza, Zimbabwe could only muster a total of 147 runs for the loss of 8 wickets.
Pakistan’s tense chase
Chasing 148 runs proved to be a challenging task for Pakistan. The opening partnership of Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub managed to score a cautious 27 runs before a sudden collapse saw the team lose three vital wickets in quick succession, including Babar Azam (0 runs) and captain Salman Ali Agha (1 run), leaving them at a precarious 54 for 4 in the 10th over. Just when it seemed Zimbabwe might pull off an upset, Fakhar Zaman and Usman Khan steadied the innings with a crucial 61-run partnership off 39 balls. Although Zimbabwe managed to dismiss Zaman, Usman Khan’s partnership with Nawaz ensured Pakistan reached the target, securing a five-wicket victory.
Next Match in the Tri-Series
The upcoming fixture in the Tri-Series will feature Zimbabwe taking on Sri Lanka at the same venue on November 20.
