Zimbabwe pulled off a stunning upset, defeating Pakistan by 80 runs via the DLS method on Sunday.
Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled dramatically during their chase of a 206-run target. By the end of 21 overs, they were in deep trouble at 60 for 6 when rain forced the match to an early conclusion.
Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and opted to field first, a decision that paid off as their spinners, vice-captain Salman Ali Agha and debutant Faisal Akram, wreaked havoc on Zimbabwe’s batting order. Both bowlers claimed three wickets each, restricting the hosts to a modest total.
However, pacers Aamir Jamal (1/42) and Mohammad Hasnain (1/43) struggled to maintain economy, proving costly for the Green Shirts.
Zimbabwe’s innings began on a shaky note when Joylord Gumbie (15) was run out in the sixth over. Dion Myers (8) followed soon after, caught off Agha in the 10th over. Tadiwanashe Marumani provided some resistance with a 29-run knock off 44 balls before falling to Agha. Captain Craig Ervine (6 off 12) also faltered, caught by Saim Ayub off Haris Rauf.
The lower order offered little respite as Brandon Mavuta (1) was dismissed by Jamal, while Brian Bennett (20) became Faisal’s victim, completing a dominant display by Pakistan’s spin duo.
