Zimbabwe Shock Pakistan with 80-Run Win in ODI Series Opener
In a thrilling opening encounter of their three-match One Day International (ODI) series, Zimbabwe pulled off a stunning upset over Pakistan, winning by 80 runs (via the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method) at Queens Sports Club on Sunday. The match, which saw a dramatic turnaround, highlighted Zimbabwe's resilience and the challenges Pakistan faced in adverse conditions.
Zimbabwe, who were put in to bat, found themselves in a precarious position early on, struggling at 125-7 halfway through their innings. However, a spirited partnership between Pakistan-born Sikandar Raza (39) and tailender Richard Ngarava (48) proved crucial in revitalizing their innings. The duo put together a 62-run stand for the eighth wicket, guiding Zimbabwe to a total of 205 before they were bowled out with nine overs to spare. Despite the lower-order resistance, Zimbabwe's total seemed below par, but the rain that followed played a key role in their favor.
Pakistan’s response was nothing short of disastrous. Their batting line-up collapsed under pressure, with Zimbabwe's pacer Blessing Muzarabani leading the charge. Muzarabani's early breakthroughs sent Pakistan's openers back to the pavilion cheaply. The wickets continued to tumble as Pakistan's batsmen struggled to cope with Zimbabwe’s disciplined bowling. At 60-6 after just 21 overs, Pakistan's chances of chasing down the target were all but extinguished. The inclement weather, which interrupted play, further solidified Zimbabwe’s advantage as the match was decided using the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers were superb, with Muzarabani leading the charge while debutant Faisal Akram, a left-arm wrist spinner, impressed with figures of 3-24. Offspinner Salman Agha also contributed with 3-42. Pakistan’s batting woes were compounded by the absence of any significant partnerships, leaving them stranded well below the required target.
The win gives Zimbabwe a morale-boosting lead in the series, and with the next two matches scheduled for Tuesday and Thursday in Bulawayo, Pakistan will be looking to bounce back quickly. For Zimbabwe, it was a day to remember as they secured an unexpected victory over one of the stronger teams in world cricket.
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