Chevrons hit rock bottom in record-breaking defeat to Pakistan

Zimbabwe's performance in yesterday's T20I against Pakistan at Queens Sports Club was nothing short of disastrous, culminating in a humiliating 10-wicket defeat. The loss handed Pakistan an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, with the final game scheduled for tomorrow.

After winning the toss and opting to bat, Zimbabwe collapsed to a meager total of 57 runs in just 12.4 overs. Pakistan chased down the target effortlessly in 5.3 overs, scoring 61 without losing a wicket.

The Chevrons' total of 57 marked their lowest score in T20I history and the second-lowest by a Full Member nation, behind only the West Indies' 45. Zimbabwe's previous low was 82 against Sri Lanka.

The defeat also set an unwelcome record for the largest victory margin by balls remaining (87) between two Full Member nations in T20Is.

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza expressed the pain felt within the team but emphasized the importance of maintaining composure.

"Everybody is hurting, but this is a time to stay calm and find answers," said Raza. "It's painful that we've made a record we shouldn't have, but what matters now is how we react and move forward. We need to put this game behind us and focus on being ready for the next one."

Raza stressed the importance of supporting the younger players to prevent the demoralizing loss from impacting future performances.

Zimbabwe's opening pair, Tadiwanashe Marumani (16) and Brian Bennett (21), were the only batters to reach double figures. Bennett top-scored with a spirited 21 off 14 balls.

Pakistan's Sufiyan Muqeem delivered a masterclass with the ball, claiming 5/3 in 2.3 overs - the best bowling figures by a Pakistani spinner in T20Is and one of the most economical fifers in the format's history. Abbas Afridi added 2/2, while Haris Rauf, Salman Agha, and Abrah Ahmed chipped in with a wicket apiece.

Pakistan's openers, Omair Yousuf and Saim Ayub, made light work of the chase. Ayub scored an unbeaten 36 off 18 balls, while Yousuf contributed 22 runs off 15 deliveries.

The Chevrons will aim to restore pride in the final game of the series, set for 1:30 PM tomorrow at the same venue. A win would offer some solace after a series dominated by the visitors.