Pakistan showcased a dominant performance in Bulawayo, securing a 99-run win over Zimbabwe and clinching the ODI series 2-1. Kamran Ghulam’s maiden ODI century and an impressive bowling effort highlighted Pakistan’s emphatic victory.
Match Summary
Pakistan: 303/6 (Ghulam 103, Shafique 50, Raza 2-47)
Zimbabwe: 204 all out (Ervine 51, Bennett 37, Ayub 2-29)
Ghulam’s First ODI Century
Kamran Ghulam scored his maiden ODI hundred, playing a crucial role in Pakistan’s total of 303. He showed resilience after a cautious start, eventually finding his rhythm and dominating the Zimbabwean bowlers. His knock included consecutive boundaries and well-timed shots, ensuring Pakistan posted a competitive score. Ghulam reached his century with a powerful shot to midwicket, adding momentum to Pakistan’s innings before being dismissed.
Steady Start by Openers
Abdullah Shafique contributed with a solid 50, helping Pakistan build a foundation. Alongside Saim Ayub, he added 50 runs in the first 11 overs. Although Ayub fell early, miscuing a shot to deep backward square, Pakistan kept the scoreboard ticking with disciplined batting.
Late Surge Pushes Pakistan Past 300
The final overs saw Pakistan accelerate, with sloppy bowling from Zimbabwe contributing to a late surge. Akram’s over proved costly, yielding 23 runs due to wides, no-balls, and boundaries. Pakistan managed to cross the 300-run mark, putting Zimbabwe under pressure.
Clinical Bowling Seals the Deal
Pakistan’s bowlers were relentless, striking early to remove key Zimbabwean batsmen. Saim Ayub dismissed both Joylord Gumbie and Dion Myers in the third over, giving Pakistan the upper hand. Haris Rauf’s pace and Abrar Ahmed’s spin kept the pressure on Zimbabwe, with wickets falling at regular intervals.
Zimbabwe’s Brief Resistance
Craig Ervine’s half-century was the only notable resistance. He kept Zimbabwe’s hopes alive momentarily, but Pakistan’s bowlers struck back. Ervine’s dismissal by Aamer Jamal marked the beginning of the end for Zimbabwe.
Bennett’s Entertaining Cameo
Brian Bennett’s quickfire 37 off 27 balls provided some late entertainment. His aggressive approach against the spinners gave the home crowd something to cheer for, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s all-around performance, led by Ghulam’s century and disciplined bowling, secured a commanding series win. With this victory, Pakistan demonstrated their ability to bounce back and win crucial matches, setting the tone for future series.
FAQs
1. Who was the top scorer for Pakistan in the match?
Kamran Ghulam was the top scorer with 103 runs, marking his maiden ODI century.
2. How many wickets did Pakistan’s bowlers take?
Pakistan bowled out Zimbabwe for 204, with key bowlers Ayub, Ahmed, and Rauf taking two wickets each.
3. What was Zimbabwe’s highest individual score in the match?
Craig Ervine scored 51, the highest individual score for Zimbabwe in this match.
4. How did Pakistan’s late surge impact the game?
Pakistan scored 69 runs in the final five overs, which played a crucial role in reaching a strong total of 303.
5. Who were the standout bowlers for Pakistan?
Saim Ayub, Abrar Ahmed, and Haris Rauf stood out with disciplined bowling performances.
This victory marks Pakistan’s second consecutive come-from-behind ODI series win, demonstrating their grit and ability to perform under pressure.