Pakistan batted first in the third and final ODI against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club after winning the toss. The match, which serves as the series decider with the score tied 1-1, saw Pakistan off to a measured start, reaching 169/2 in 33.3 overs.
Openers Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique built a steady opening partnership. Saim played an aggressive knock, scoring 31 off 37 balls with three boundaries and a six, before being caught by Clive Madande off Faraz Akram in the 13th over. Abdullah Shafique contributed 50 runs off 68 balls, hitting five fours and a six. He was trapped leg-before by Sikandar Raza in the 24th over. Their efforts set a solid base for the middle order.
Kamran Ghulam Anchors the Innings
Kamran Ghulam led Pakistan’s charge with an unbeaten 67 off 66 deliveries. His innings included four fours and four sixes, showcasing a mix of aggression and composure. Ghulam maintained a brisk strike rate of 101.52, keeping the scoreboard ticking.
Mohammad Rizwan Supports the Middle Order
Captain and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan provided steady support to Ghulam. Rizwan remained not out on 20 off 30 balls, hitting three boundaries. Together, Ghulam and Rizwan formed an unbeaten partnership that has steered Pakistan to a promising position.
Zimbabwe’s Bowling Struggles
Zimbabwe’s bowlers failed to make consistent breakthroughs. Faraz Akram picked up the wicket of Saim Ayub, while Sikandar Raza dismissed Abdullah Shafique. Despite these wickets, Zimbabwe’s bowling lacked penetration. Raza was economical with figures of 1/30 in seven overs. Sean Williams and Faraz Akram also kept things tight, conceding 34 and 28 runs, respectively.
Extras and Fielding
Pakistan benefited from disciplined batting, with only one extra run conceded by Zimbabwe so far. The fielding unit, led by Madande and supported by tight spells from Raza and Williams, ensured Pakistan’s scoring did not spiral out of control.
Match Context and Remaining Line-up
With Pakistan’s top order laying a strong foundation, middle-order batsmen such as Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, and Irfan Khan Niazi are yet to bat. All-rounders like Aamir Jamal and bowlers Haris Rauf, Faisal Akram, and Abrar Ahmed are also available.
Outlook for the Rest of the Match
With 16.3 overs remaining in their innings, Pakistan is well-positioned to post a competitive total. Zimbabwe will aim to restrict Pakistan’s scoring and chase the target on a pitch offering some assistance to bowlers. The outcome of this match will determine the winner of the series.
Key Stats
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- Pakistan’s Top Scorer: Kamran Ghulam (67* off 66 balls).
- Zimbabwe’s Best Bowler: Sikandar Raza (1/30 in 7 overs).
- Current Partnership: 57* runs between Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Rizwan.
- Fall of Wickets: 58/1 (Saim Ayub), 112/2 (Abdullah Shafique).
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