Pakistan Pulverize Zimbabwe, Level Series

By Andile Mvundla

Pakistan made a strong comeback in the second ODI against Zimbabwe yesterday, securing a comprehensive 10-wicket victory to level the three-match series.

The match, played at Queens Sports Club, was a one-sided affair as the visitors dominated from start to finish.

Zimbabwe, who had surprised Pakistan in the opening ODI, struggled to replicate their form, which had seen them dominate the Asian-based side with the ball on Sunday.

Their batting lineup, which had been the highlight of the previous match, faltered as they were bowled out for a total of 145 runs, setting an attainable target of 146 for the Pakistanis.

Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Abrar Ahmed, exploited the conditions effectively to dismantle the Zimbabwean batting order. None of the Chevrons players reached the 40-run mark, with Dion Myers top-scoring with 34 runs.

In reply, Pakistan’s openers, Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique, chased down the target with ease, remaining unbeaten throughout the innings.

Their partnership was a masterclass in batting, as they displayed excellent technique and timing. Ayub snatched the player-of-the-match award after recording 113 runs off 62 balls in the game.

With the series level at 1-1, the decisive third ODI is set for Thursday at 9:30 am at the same venue. Both teams will be eager to clinch the series and gain momentum heading into the three-day T20 international series, which commences on Sunday.