Pakistan concluded their ODI series against Zimbabwe with a commanding 99-run victory in the third match at the Queens Sports Club, claiming the series 2-1. A stellar batting performance, led by Kamran Ghulam‘s brilliant century, and an effective bowling display ensured Pakistan’s dominance in the decider.
Pakistan sets a challenging total against Zimbabwe
Winning the toss, Pakistan elected to bat and posted an imposing total of 303/6 in their 50 overs. The innings revolved around Kamran’s 103 off 99 balls, featuring 10 fours and 4 sixes. He anchored the innings after steady starts from the openers, Saim Ayub (31) and Abdullah Shafique (50).
Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan contributed a vital 37 runs, while middle-order batters Agha Salman (30 off 26) and Tayyab Tahir (29 off 16) added quick runs towards the end. Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled for breakthroughs, with only Sikandar Raza and Richard Ngarava picking two wickets each, and they too conceded 47 and 55 runs respectively.
Zimbabwe batters falters under pressure
Chasing 304 for victory, Zimbabwe’s innings never gained momentum as they were bowled out for 204 in 40.1 overs. Captain Craig Ervine led from the front with a gritty 51 off 63 balls, but he lacked support from the top order.
The middle order showed brief resistance, with Brian Bennett scoring a brisk 37 off 27 balls and Sean Williams chipping in with 24, but consistent wickets derailed their chase. Lower-order contributions from Richard Ngarava (17) and Clive Madande (20) were not enough to rescue Zimbabwe.
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Pakistan’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, with six bowlers sharing the wickets. Aamer Jamal (5-0-19-2) and Haris Rauf (7.1-0-34-2) impressed with their pace and control, while spinners Abrar Ahmed (9-0-45-2) and part-timer Saim Ayub (4-0-29-2) contributed crucial breakthroughs. All-rounder Ghulam capped his memorable day with the ball, taking 1 for 7 in two overs.
Player of the Match
Kamran Ghulam’s all-round heroics earned him the Player of the Match award, while Pakistan’s ability to recover from early setbacks and execute their plans underlined their depth and resilience. Zimbabwe, despite showing flashes of brilliance, struggled with consistency, particularly in their batting department.
Kamran Ghulam shines on the international stage with a maiden ODI century 🤩#ZIMvPAK: https://t.co/Eh9UQ3LkBO pic.twitter.com/Pos57qx6ww
— ICC (@ICC) November 28, 2024
Both teams now turn their attention to the T20I series, with the first match scheduled for Sunday, December 1, at the same venue.
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