Discover the top 3 Zimbabwe players to watch in the 2nd T20I. Zimbabwe has an advantage in the ongoing ODI series against Pakistan, having won the first ODI by a massive margin of 80 runs through the DLS method. Given the absence of some key players in the Pakistani lineup, Zimbabwe would fancy their chance to close the game with a series win. Zimbabwe has some of the best players in the world in their lineup and can’t be taken lightly.
The second T20I between the two sides is set to take place at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. It was the exact venue where the first ODI was played. If Pakistan loses the match, they will concede a series of defeats to the 1992 World Cup winners. Zimbabwe would be hoping to win the match to show what they’re capable of. For that to happen, their players must put in good effort.
Here are the three Zimbabwe players to watch out for against Pakistan in the second ODI –
1. Richard Ngarava
Richard Ngarava was the one who saved Zimbabwe from a terrible collapse in the first ODI. On a tricky wicket to bat on, the home side was reduced to 125/7. Ngarava played a fabulous knock lower down the order. He scored 48 runs in 52 balls, which included 5 fours and a six. It not just stabilized Zimbabwe’s innings, but also ensured a good total on the board.
For a number 9 to add 48 runs from his end at a healthy SR meant there was a mental barrage in the Pakistani dugout when they went out to bat. He did not get a wicket with the ball. His primary job is with the ball. Given his performance with the bat and abilities with the ball, he might prove to be a crucial factor for Zimbabwe in the second ODI.
2. Sikandar Raza
Sikandar Raza is one of the best all-rounders in the world. The star player is undoubtedly Zimbabwe’s biggest match-winner. In the first ODI against Pakistan, he contributed both as a batter and as a bowler. With the bat, he scored 39 runs in 56 balls and played the role of anchor well. His knock helped Zimbabwe’s innings to get the required stability.
With the ball, Raza was even good as he bowled 3 overs, conceded just 7 runs, and claimed 2 wickets. The experienced player dismissed Haseebullah Khan and Agha Salman. In the second ODI, he could be expected to put on a similar performance. If he does, Zimbabwe would have a good chance to claim a second win in a row over the visiting side.
3. Blessing Muzarabani
Blessing Muzarabani is an underrated bowler. Playing for a team like Zimbabwe, he can dismiss the best batters in the world. The tall bowler has a good record over Pakistan and can be trusted to deliver the goods. It is very difficult to score runs against him, especially if you don’t have the required skills. He’s good in the PP and the death overs.
With the new ball, he can take wickets. Muzarabani can be economical with the old ball where the batters would find it difficult to score against him. It was exactly what happened in the first ODI where he bowled 5 overs, conceded just 9 runs, and took two wickets including a maiden over. He dismissed both the openers of Pakistan within the first five overs.
Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.