Cricket Highlights, December 05: Pakistan tour of Zimbabwe (3rd T20I) – Zimbabwe vs. Pakistan

ZIM vs. PAK (3rd T20) – Highlights

In this article, we will discuss the thrilling 3rd T20I between Pakistan and Zimbabwe, held in Bulawayo on December 5, 2024, as part of Pakistan’s tour of Zimbabwe. The match was a nail-biter that went down to the penultimate ball, showcasing intense competition between the two teams. Pakistan set a target of 133 runs with a steady yet modest batting performance. Zimbabwe, in response, displayed remarkable grit and resilience, securing a dramatic 2-wicket victory with just one ball remaining.

Pakistan batted first, scoring 132/7, with key contributions from their middle order. Zimbabwe chased the target of 133 in a nail-biting finish, overcoming some tense moments to reach 133/8 in 19.5 overs. This victory highlighted Zimbabwe’s resilience and ability to handle pressure in crucial moments, sealing a dramatic win in the series.

The top order collapsed under Zimbabwe’s disciplined bowling. Sahibzada Farhan (4 off 7), Omair Yousuf (0 off 2), and Usman Khan (5 off 8) fell early, leaving Pakistan at a precarious 19/3 within the powerplay overs.

Skipper Salman Agha steadied the innings with a patient 32 off 32 balls, hitting three boundaries. His effort held the innings together, though he struggled to accelerate in the middle overs.The middle order showed brief promise. Tayyab Tahir smashed a cheeky 21 off 14 balls, spicing it up with two boundaries and a six, while Qasim Akram played his part with a zippy 20 off 15, sprinkling in three fours for good measure.

Arafat Minhas played a crucial role in the latter part of the innings, staying unbeaten on 22 off 26 balls. He partnered with Abbas Afridi (15 off 14) and Jahandad Khan (6 off 3) to push the score beyond 130.Zimbabwe’s bowlers were exceptional, led by Blessing Muzarabani (2/25) and Ryan Burl (1/15). Wellington Masakadza (1/24) and Richard Ngarava (1/27) provided key breakthroughs, while Tinotenda Maposa and the fielders, especially Bennett and wicketkeeper Marumani, contributed with a brilliant run-out.

Overall, Zimbabwe’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding kept Pakistan to a below-par total on a balanced Bulawayo pitch. Chasing a modest target of 133, Zimbabwe’s batting lineup displayed resilience and timely contributions to clinch a thrilling 2-wicket victory with one ball to spare.

Zimbabwe started aggressively, with Tadiwanashe Marumani smashing 15 runs off just 6 balls, including three boundaries, before falling to Agha Salman in the third over. Brian Bennett anchored the innings, scoring a steady 43 off 35 balls with six fours and a six, holding the innings together during the middle overs.

Contributions from Sikandar Raza (19 off 20) and Dion Myers (13 off 18) added stability but were not enough to dominate the chase. Wesley Madhevere (7 off 7) and Ryan Burl (6 off 7) departed cheaply, putting Zimbabwe under pressure.

Lower-order heroics turned the game in Zimbabwe’s favor. Tinotenda Maposa smashed an unbeaten 12 off just 4 balls, including a crucial six and a boundary, to seal the game in the final over. Richard Ngarava (1 off 1) supported him at the other end, ensuring the team crossed the finish line.

For Pakistan, Abbas Afridi impressed with 3 wickets for 24 runs, including crucial breakthroughs in the middle and death overs. Sufiyan Muqeem (1/19) and Jahandad Khan (2/30) bowled well under pressure. Arafat Minhas delivered an economical spell, conceding only 17 runs in his 4 overs.

Despite Pakistan’s disciplined bowling, Zimbabwe’s gritty batting and composure in the final moments secured a memorable win in this nail-biting contest.

Pakistan vs. Zimbabwe Scoreboard

Pakistan– 132/7 (20)

Zimbabwe- 133/8 (19.5/20)

Result – Zimbabwe won by 2 wickets (with 1 ball remaining)

Player of the Match – Brian Bennett 

ZIM vs. PAK Playing Eleven

Disclaimer: This Highlights is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.

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