Blessing Muzarabani and Zimbabwe’s spinners delivered a stunning 80-run victory over Pakistan in the first ODI in Bulawayo. The rains, which arrived just after the 20-over mark in Pakistan’s innings, sealed a result that was already tilted in Zimbabwe’s favor. The hosts used sharp bowling and tactical brilliance to dismantle Pakistan on a tricky surface.
Early Wickets Set the Tone
Muzarabani, thriving in overcast conditions, gave Zimbabwe the ideal start. He removed Abdullah Shafique and Saim Ayub early, exploiting movement off the pitch. Shafique edged behind in just the fifth ball he faced, while Ayub fell victim to a delivery that swung late. These quick breakthroughs left Pakistan in disarray, chasing 206 on a pitch offering turn and bounce.
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Spin Masters Dominate
Zimbabwe’s spinners took control as the game progressed. Sikandar Raza and Sean Williams spun a web around Pakistan’s batters. Williams, coming around the wicket, forced Kamran Ghulam into a mistake that led to a sharp catch behind. Raza’s double strike eliminated Salman Agha and debutant Haseebullah Khan, with the latter undone by a turning delivery that shattered his stumps.
Pressure mounted as Pakistan struggled against disciplined bowling. Irfan Khan’s dismissal, bowled by Williams, further deepened the crisis. As rain clouds loomed, Zimbabwe ensured they bowled the required 20 overs to secure a result.
Resilient Batting Anchors Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s innings started with promise as Tadiwanashe Marumani and Joylord Gumbie attacked Pakistan’s wayward bowling. However, a direct hit from Shafique dismissed Gumbie, sparking a collapse. Salman Agha’s clever spin and Haris Rauf’s pace chipped away at Zimbabwe’s middle order, reducing them to 125 for 7.
At this stage, an unlikely partnership between Raza and Richard Ngarava rescued the innings. Ngarava, showing remarkable composure, mixed solid defense with powerful drives and pulls. His 48-run knock frustrated Pakistan, who struggled to dismiss him despite persistent short balls. Raza’s steady presence ensured Zimbabwe reached a competitive total of 205.
Pakistan’s Batting Falters
Chasing a modest target, Pakistan’s batters failed to find their rhythm. The darkening skies and spin-friendly conditions proved too much to handle. The middle order crumbled as Williams and Raza kept applying pressure. By the time rain interrupted play, Pakistan had stumbled to 60 for 6, far behind the required rate.
A Memorable Day for Zimbabwe
This victory marks a significant moment for Zimbabwean cricket. Muzarabani’s precise bowling and the spinners’ guile showcased their potential against a top-tier opponent. The rains may have expedited the result, but Zimbabwe had already dominated with their all-around performance.
Bulawayo’s Queens Sports Club celebrated not just the rain but also a spirited display of cricket. For Zimbabwe, this win is a stepping stone toward reclaiming their competitive edge on the international stage.
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