BULAWAYO: Pakistan defeated Zimbabwe by 57 runs in the first match of the three-match T20I series in Blantyre.
Pakistan’s Innings
After winning the toss, Pakistan choses to bat first. They posted a total of 165/4 in 20 overs. Tayyab Tahir remained unbeaten on 39 runs, while Irfan Khan also stayed not out on 27 runs.
Other key contributions came from Usman Khan (39), Saeem Ayub (24), Aamir Yousuf (16), and captain Salman Agha (13).
Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled to make an impact, with Sikandar Raza, Richard Ngarava, Wellington Masakadza, and Ryan Burl each taking one wicket.
Zimbabwe’s Reply
Chasing 166, Zimbabwe’s top order faltered early. The first wicket fell at just 12 runs. Captain Sikandar Raza and Tadiwanashe Marumani put up some resistance, but wickets continued to fall.
By the 16th over, Zimbabwe was all out for 108 runs. Raza made 39, and Marumani scored 33.
Pakistan’s Bowling Performance
Abrar Ahmed and Sufyan Muqeem starred with the ball, taking three wickets each. Haris Rauf took two wickets, and Jahan Dad Khan claimed one.
Player of the Match
Tayyab Tahir was named Player of the Match for his solid innings.
Series Update
Pakistan now leads the series 1-0.
