Pakistan defeated Zimbabwe by 57 runs in the first T20, with spinners Muqeem and Ahmed taking three wickets each as Zimbabwe was bowled out for 108. Pakistan scored 165-4, anchored by Tayyab Tahir’s 39. Zimbabwe’s top order fell apart after a promising start, ultimately losing their last eight wickets for 31 runs. Haris Rauf set a new Pakistan T20 record for wickets.
In the inaugural T20 match on Sunday, Pakistan secured a decisive 57-run victory over Zimbabwe, largely thanks to their spin bowling attack. Left-arm wrist spinner Sufiyan Muqeem and leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed both excelled, each taking three wickets, contributing significantly to bowling Zimbabwe out for just 108 runs in 15.3 overs. After winning the toss, Pakistan set a target of 165 runs, with Tayyab Tahir scoring a vital unbeaten 39 runs off 26 balls, and Irfan Khan contributing an impressive 27 runs without being dismissed.
Despite a promising start from Zimbabwe, led by captain Sikandar Raza and Tadiwanashe Marumani, who made 39 and 33 runs respectively, they faltered significantly after losing key wickets. Raza and Marumani initially helped their team reach 53 for 2 within five overs, but a run-out ended Marumani’s innings and triggered a collapse, wherein the last eight Zimbabwean wickets fell for just 31 runs. Haris Rauf also shined for Pakistan, surpassing Shadab Khan’s T20 wicket record by taking 2 for 17.
Pakistan’s batting was initially constrained by Zimbabwe’s spinners, but the late innings burst by Tahir and Khan bolstered the total. The absence of frontline players, including captain Mohammad Rizwan, did not impede Pakistan’s performance. Following this match, the second T20 is scheduled for Tuesday in Bulawayo, culminating the series with a third T20 match on Thursday.
The first T20 international match between Pakistan and Zimbabwe began with Pakistan winning the toss and opting to bat first. This decision allowed them to set a competitive score which their bowlers then defended effectively. Pakistan’s selection for this series lacks several key players, notably Mohammad Rizwan, indicating a strategic adjustment as they transition from ODIs, where they previously secured a 2-1 series win against the same opponent. The match was significant not only for its competitive spirit but also for its implications on player statistics and records.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s emphatic victory over Zimbabwe was a testament to their effective spin bowling strategy and late-order batting performance. The contributions from both Muqeem and Ahmed in dismantling Zimbabwe’s innings were pivotal, as was the strong finish by Tahir and Khan, ensuring Pakistan set and defended a challenging target. The match also underscored the depth of talent in the Pakistani squad, even in the absence of key players. The upcoming matches present an opportunity for both teams to further showcase their cricketing prowess.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
