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Pakistan crush Zimbabwe in second ODI to level series
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Pakistan delivered a dominant performance in the second One Day International (ODI) at Queens Sports Club, cruising to a 10-wicket victory over Zimbabwe to level the three-match series 1-1.
Zimbabwe's Struggles with the Bat
After winning the toss and opting to bat, Zimbabwe managed only 145 runs in 32.3 overs. The Chevrons' batting lineup faltered under relentless pressure from Pakistan's spin-heavy attack. Dion Myers top-scored with 33 off 30 balls, while Sean Williams contributed 31 from 39 deliveries. Craig Ervine (18) and Sikandar Raza (17) offered minimal support in an otherwise lackluster batting effort.
Pakistan's leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, making his ODI debut, spearheaded the bowling with a remarkable 4/33 in eight overs. Salman Agha supported him with figures of 3/26 in seven overs, while Faisal Akram and Saim Ayub claimed a wicket each. One Zimbabwean batter was run out, capping a dismal outing for the hosts.
Pakistan's Commanding Chase
Chasing 146 for victory, Pakistan's opening pair made the target look trivial. Saim Ayub delivered an explosive century, smashing an unbeaten 113 off just 62 balls, including 17 fours and three sixes. His partner, Abdullah Shafique, played a steady supporting role with 32 not out from 48 balls.
The duo's unbroken opening stand saw Pakistan race to 148 without loss in just 18.4 overs, showcasing their dominance with both bat and ball. Ayub's sensational century earned him the Player of the Match award.
Series Decider on Thursday
The win sets up a thrilling series decider, scheduled for Thursday at the same venue. Both teams will aim to bring their best to clinch the series, with Pakistan carrying momentum and Zimbabwe looking to bounce back from the heavy defeat.
Zimbabwe's Struggles with the Bat
After winning the toss and opting to bat, Zimbabwe managed only 145 runs in 32.3 overs. The Chevrons' batting lineup faltered under relentless pressure from Pakistan's spin-heavy attack. Dion Myers top-scored with 33 off 30 balls, while Sean Williams contributed 31 from 39 deliveries. Craig Ervine (18) and Sikandar Raza (17) offered minimal support in an otherwise lackluster batting effort.
Pakistan's leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, making his ODI debut, spearheaded the bowling with a remarkable 4/33 in eight overs. Salman Agha supported him with figures of 3/26 in seven overs, while Faisal Akram and Saim Ayub claimed a wicket each. One Zimbabwean batter was run out, capping a dismal outing for the hosts.
Pakistan's Commanding Chase
Chasing 146 for victory, Pakistan's opening pair made the target look trivial. Saim Ayub delivered an explosive century, smashing an unbeaten 113 off just 62 balls, including 17 fours and three sixes. His partner, Abdullah Shafique, played a steady supporting role with 32 not out from 48 balls.
The duo's unbroken opening stand saw Pakistan race to 148 without loss in just 18.4 overs, showcasing their dominance with both bat and ball. Ayub's sensational century earned him the Player of the Match award.
Series Decider on Thursday
The win sets up a thrilling series decider, scheduled for Thursday at the same venue. Both teams will aim to bring their best to clinch the series, with Pakistan carrying momentum and Zimbabwe looking to bounce back from the heavy defeat.
Source - The Chronicle
