Pakistan takes early lead against Zimbabwe in tri-series

Rawalpindi-(Mudassar Iqbal)-Mohammad Nawaz, Fakhar Zaman, and Usman Khan propelled Pakistan to a five-wicket triumph over Zimbabwe in the opening game of the tri-nation series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

Zimbabwe set a modest total of 147 for 8 in their allotted 20 overs. Brian Bennett top-scored with a brisk 49 off 36 deliveries, supported by Tadiwanashe Marumani’s 30, while Sikandar Raza remained unbeaten on 34. Brendan Taylor and Tony Munyonga were both run out. Mohammad Nawaz was the standout bowler for Pakistan, picking up two wickets, while Shaheen Shah Afridi, Salman Mirza, Saim Ayub, and Abrar Ahmed claimed one wicket each.

In response, Pakistan chased down the target comfortably, finishing at 151 for 5 in 19.2 overs. Fakhar Zaman struck a quick 44 off 32 balls, while Usman Khan remained unbeaten on 37. Mohammad Nawaz contributed an unbeaten 20. Other notable contributions included Saim Ayub’s 22 and Sahibzada Farhan’s 16, with Babar Azam dismissed for a duck. Brad Evans captured two wickets for Zimbabwe, but Pakistan needed only 118 balls to secure victory, winning with four balls remaining.

Pakistan captain Salman Agha lost the toss and opted to field. Zimbabwe began strongly, reaching 50 runs for the first wicket in 5.4 overs.

Despite a solid partnership between Bennett and Marumani, Zimbabwe lost wickets regularly in the second half of their innings. Pakistan suffered early setbacks, losing four wickets in the powerplay, but a crucial fifth-wicket stand between Zaman and Khan ensured the chase remained on track.