• Pakistan kicked off their T20I series against Zimbabwe with a resounding 57-run victory in Bulawayo.

  • Tayyab Tahir was named Player of the Match for his explosive batting.

Twitter reactions: Pakistan takes 1-0 lead over Zimbabwe with a dominant win in Bulawayo T20I
Pakistan (Image Source: X)

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Pakistan kicked off their T20I series against Zimbabwe with a resounding 57-run victory in Bulawayo. Spearheaded by the exceptional spells of Haris Rauf and Sufiyan Muqeem, the visitors bowled out Zimbabwe for just 108 runs, securing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Muqeem, with his career-best figures of 3/20, stood out, while Rauf’s precision ensured timely breakthroughs.

A balanced start for Pakistan after winning the toss

Pakistan opted to bat first with the intent of setting a formidable target. However, the innings got off to a shaky start as opener Omair Yousuf fell early, managing 16 off 13 deliveries before being undone by a sharp delivery from Richard Ngarava. Despite the early setback, Saim Ayub and Usman Khan brought stability to the innings with a 39-run partnership for the second wicket. Ayub showcased glimpses of his flair with a few elegant strokes but fell for 21, mistiming a pull shot that landed safely in the hands of the long-off fielder, leaving Pakistan in a rebuilding phase.

Tayyab Tahir’s game-changing innings

Tayyab Tahir emerged as the star of Pakistan’s batting effort with a composed yet aggressive knock of 39* off 25 balls. Walking in at a precarious moment, Tahir counterattacked with flair, blending timing and power. His ability to find gaps and clear the fielders underlined his batting prowess.

Tahir’s partnership with Irfan Khan was pivotal in turning the innings around. The duo added 65 runs for the fifth wicket, with Tahir anchoring the stand while maintaining a brisk scoring rate. His shot selection, particularly his ability to dispatch anything loose, proved crucial in Pakistan reaching a competitive total. Irfan Khan played a perfect supporting role alongside Tahir, scoring a quickfire 27 off just 15 balls. His aggressive stroke play not only complemented Tahir but also ensured Pakistan finished the innings on a strong note. Irfan’s contribution, though overshadowed by Tahir, played a vital role in the final surge of runs.

Also READ: ZIM vs PAK 2024: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s bright start fades quickly: Sufiyan Muqeem and Haris Rauf shine

Zimbabwe began their chase with promise, despite losing Brian Bennett early. A solid 59-run partnership between Tadiwanashe Marumani and Sikandar Raza kept the hosts in contention. Marumani, in particular, looked comfortable against the pacers and was instrumental in steadying the innings. However, a poor call for a second run led to Marumani’s run-out, opening the floodgates for a Zimbabwean collapse. Following his departure, Zimbabwe lost wickets in a flurry, with no batter able to withstand Pakistan’s disciplined bowling.

Muqeem’s left-arm spin was a revelation on the slow surface. His variations, particularly the googly, left Zimbabwe’s middle and lower order clueless. Rauf, with his pace and accuracy, continued to strike at crucial junctures, dismissing key batters like Ryan Burl cheaply Zimbabwe captain Raza stood tall amidst the ruins, scoring a valiant 39 off 28 balls. However, his dismissal – an ill-timed cut shot caught brilliantly at backward point – sealed Zimbabwe’s fate.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Also READ: ZIM vs PAK 2024: Zimbabwe’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Pakistan

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