Pakistan secured a dominant 99-run win over Zimbabwe in the third and final One Day International (ODI) at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, clinching the series 2-1. Kamran Ghulam’s maiden century and a cohesive bowling effort were pivotal in Pakistan’s emphatic victory.
After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first and posted an imposing total of 303/6 in 50 overs. Kamran Ghulam was the standout performer, scoring a scintillating 103 off 99 balls, including 10 fours and four sixes. Abdullah Shafique contributed a steady 50 off 68 deliveries, while captain Mohammad Rizwan added a valuable 37 during an 89-run partnership with Kamran.
The innings received a late boost from Salman Ali Agha and Tayyab Tahir. Agha struck 30 off 26 balls, while Tayyab remained unbeaten with a brisk 29 off 16, hitting four boundaries. Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled against Pakistan’s batting depth, with Sikandar Raza and Richard Ngarava picking up two wickets each.
In response, Zimbabwe faltered early, losing two wickets for just 10 runs within three overs. Skipper Craig Ervine led a brief recovery with a gutsy 51 off 63 balls, featuring five fours and a six. He forged partnerships with Tadiwanashe Marumani (39 runs) and Sean Williams (41 runs) to steady the innings. However, his dismissal by Aamir Jamal in the 26th over left the hosts in trouble.
Zimbabwe’s chase fell apart as they were bowled out for 204, 99 runs short of the target. None of the other batters managed to build significant innings, with Pakistan’s bowlers maintaining tight control throughout. Aamir Jamal, Haris Rauf, and Abrar Ahmed spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling attack, ensuring a comprehensive win for the visitors.
The series win was a morale booster for the Green Shirts, and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi congratulated the team for their outstanding performance.
Playing XIs:
Pakistan: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan, Tayyab Tahir, Salman Ali Agha, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Aamir Jamal, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Faisal Akram.
Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Joylord Gumbie (wk), Trevor Gwandu, Craig Ervine (c), Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brandon Mavuta, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams.
