In the first T20I between Zimbabwe and Pakistan at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, on December 1, 2024, Pakistan dominated with a comprehensive 57-run victory to take an early lead in the series. The match showcased Pakistan’s clinical approach with both bat and ball, while Zimbabwe struggled to find momentum.
Pakistan Sets the Tone with a Steady Start
- Opting to bat first, Pakistan posted a challenging total of 165/4 in 20 overs. The innings saw contributions from Tayyab Tahir, who anchored the innings with an unbeaten 39 off 25 balls, and Irfan Khan, who added a quickfire 27 not out off 15 balls. Usman Khan provided stability with 39 runs off 30 balls, but Zimbabwean bowlers kept breakthroughs coming at regular intervals. Sikandar Raza, leading the hosts, delivered a commendable spell, conceding just 14 runs in his four overs and taking a wicket.
Despite these efforts, Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled to contain Pakistan’s middle-order acceleration, especially in the death overs, allowing the visitors to set a competitive target.
Zimbabwe Stumbles in Chase
- Zimbabwe’s chase got off to a rocky start, with early wickets derailing their plans. Haris Rauf and Sufiyan Muqeem spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling attack, consistently challenging Zimbabwe’s batters. The hosts were eventually bundled out for 108 in just 15.3 overs.
- For Zimbabwe, none of the batters managed to settle at the crease, with sporadic contributions failing to build partnerships. Haris Rauf’s pace and Muqeem’s spin proved too much for the Zimbabwean lineup, as Pakistan’s bowlers showcased their depth and variety.
Key Performances and Takeaways
- Pakistan’s balanced approach was key to their success. Their middle-order batters effectively handled Zimbabwe’s spinners, while the bowlers exploited the conditions well. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, will need to address their inability to form meaningful partnerships and improve their bowling discipline, especially in the death overs.
- This victory puts Pakistan in a strong position as the series progresses, but Zimbabwe will aim to regroup and fight back in the upcoming matches to keep the series alive.
- The second T20I is scheduled for December 3, 2024, at the same venue, providing Zimbabwe an immediate opportunity to rectify their mistakes and level the series
Zimbabwe vs. Pakistan, 1st T20I: A Comprehensive Victory for the Visitors
- Pakistan began their tour of Zimbabwe on a high note, securing a commanding 57-run win in the 1st T20I at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. Their all-around performance set the tone for the series, underlining their strength in both batting and bowling.
Pakistan’s Innings: Tactical Power Hitting
- Choosing to bat first, Pakistan approached the innings with caution in the powerplay before switching gears. Tayyab Tahir’s unbeaten 39 from 25 balls and Irfan Khan’s aggressive 27 off 15 ensured they posted a competitive total of 165/4. Openers Saim Ayub and Usman Khan provided a steady base, adding 57 runs for the second wicket. Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza stood out with the ball, delivering a frugal spell (1/14 in 4 overs), but his efforts weren’t complemented enough by the rest of the bowling unit.
- Zimbabwe’s seamers, particularly Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani, struggled with economy, allowing Pakistan’s middle order to dominate the final overs.
Zimbabwe’s Chase Falters Early
- Chasing 166, Zimbabwe faced an uphill battle from the start. Haris Rauf delivered an early blow, dismissing opener Innocent Kaia cheaply. The middle order faltered under pressure from Pakistan’s disciplined attack, with Sufiyan Muqeem’s crafty spin claiming crucial wickets. Despite glimpses of resistance, including Sikandar Raza’s spirited cameo, Zimbabwe crumbled to 108 all out in 15.3 overs.
- Rauf was the standout bowler, showcasing his pace and accuracy to finish with exceptional figures, while Muqeem added variety to Pakistan’s attack with his leg-spin.