Pakistan defeats Zimbabwe by 57 runs in first T20I
Earlier, Pakistan had already won the 3-match ODI series by 2-0.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan emerged victorious in the opening match of the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, winning by 57 runs. Zimbabwe, chasing a target of 166, was bowled out for just 108 runs in 16 overs.
Pakistan’s Innings: In the match played in Bulawayo, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first. They posted a total of 165/4 in their allotted 20 overs. Tayyab Tahir top-scored with 39 runs, while Irfan Khan remained unbeaten on 27. Usman Khan also contributed with a solid 39-run knock. Saim Ayub (24), Omair Yousuf (16), and captain Salman Agha (13) were the other notable contributors with the bat.
For Zimbabwe, Sikandar Raza and Richard Ngarava each took a wicket, while Wellington Masakadza and Ryan Burl claimed one wicket apiece.
Zimbabwe’s Innings: Chasing a challenging target of 166, Zimbabwe struggled from the outset. They lost their first wicket for just 12 runs, and wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. Captain Sikandar Raza and Tatenda Taibu fought hard, but Zimbabwe’s batting collapse saw them bowled out for 108 runs.
Sikandar Raza (39) and Taibu (33) were the top scorers for Zimbabwe. Pakistan’s bowlers dominated, with Abrar Ahmed and Sufyan Maqeem claiming 3 wickets each. Haris Rauf took 2 wickets, and Jehandad Khan picked up 1 wicket.
Read more: PCB Agrees to Conditional Hybrid Model for Champions Trophy: Reports
Tayyab Tahir was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance with the bat. With this win, Pakistan takes a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series.
Earlier, Pakistan had already won the 3-match ODI series by 2-0.
