Zimbabwe Stage Dramatic Comeback to Win Final T20I Against Pakistan by Two Wickets
BULAWAYO, ZIMBABWE:
Zimbabwe pulled off a thrilling victory in the final T20I of the three-match series against Pakistan, chasing down a target of 133 runs in a nail-biting finish at the Queens Sports Club on Wednesday. Despite the defeat, Pakistan claimed the series 2-1.
Pakistan, opting to bat first, endured an early collapse, losing three wickets for just 19 runs. Salman Agha (32) and Tayyab Tahir (21) steadied the innings, putting together a recovery partnership to guide Pakistan to a total of 132 runs. Contributions from Qasim Akram (20) and Arafat Minhas (22) helped the visitors reach a somewhat competitive score after their early setbacks.
In reply, Zimbabwe started strong, with opener Brian Bennett leading the charge. His vital 40 runs anchored the innings as Zimbabwe looked in control of the chase. Captain Sikandar Raza added a useful 19 runs, helping the hosts stay on course for the target.
The match reached a dramatic climax in the final stages when Wellington Masakadza and Tinotenda Maposa provided the finishing touch. Despite some late resistance from Pakistan’s bowlers, Zimbabwe held their nerve, crossing the line in the final over to seal a two-wicket victory.
The win was a bright spot for Zimbabwe, who had been outplayed in the earlier matches but fought back with resilience and determination in the series finale.
Playing XIs:
Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Usman Khan (wk), Omair Bin Yousuf, Salman Agha (c), Tayyab Tahir, Qasim Akram, Abbas Afridi, Jahandad Khan, Sufiyan Muqeem, Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Hasnain.
Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Clive Madande, Tashinga Musekiwa, Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Tinotenda Maposa.
Despite the series loss, Pakistan can take some positives from their overall performance, while Zimbabwe will look to build on this thrilling win as they head into future series.
