Pakistan started their tri-nation series campaign with a confident five-wicket win against Zimbabwe at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi on Tuesday. The home side successfully chased down the target despite early setbacks, ending the match with four balls remaining.
Zimbabwe set a total of 147 for eight in their 20 overs. Brian Bennett led their innings with a solid 49 off 36 balls. Tadiwanashe Marumani added 30, while Sikandar Raza finished unbeaten on 34. Pakistan bowlers kept steady control, with Mohammad Nawaz taking two wickets. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Salman Mirza, Saim Ayub and Abrar Ahmed claimed one wicket each. Zimbabwe also faced pressure due to two run-outs, which slowed their progress in the final overs.
Pakistan began the chase with confidence but suffered quick losses in the powerplay. Babar Azam departed without scoring, and the team slipped to four wickets down early in the innings. However, Fakhar Zaman stabilised the chase with an important 44 off 32 balls. Usman Khan remained calm under pressure and stayed unbeaten on 37. Mohammad Nawaz added 20 not out, helping Pakistan maintain control during the final overs. Sahibzada Farhan contributed 16, while Saim Ayub scored 22.
Zimbabwe’s Brad Evans was the most successful bowler for his side, taking two wickets. Despite his effort, Pakistan completed the chase in 19.2 overs, needing only 118 balls to reach 151 for five.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan captain Salman Agha lost the toss and was asked to field first. Zimbabwe made a quick start, reaching 50 for the first wicket in under six overs. Their momentum slowed later as Pakistan tightened their bowling attack and took crucial wickets at regular intervals.
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The victory gives Pakistan an early advantage in the tri-nation series and boosts their confidence for the upcoming matches.
