Zimbabwe defeated Pakistan by two wickets in the third T20I to prevent a series whitewash, chasing down a target of 133 runs with only one ball to spare. Key performances came from Brian Bennett and Tinotenda Maposa, while Pakistan struggled with the bat, managing 132 runs in their innings.
In the third and final T20 International match held at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe clinched a dramatic two-wicket victory over Pakistan, preventing a series whitewash. Chasing a target of 133 runs, Zimbabwe entered the last over needing 12 runs to succeed. Remarkably, debutant Tinotenda Maposa struck a four and a six in the over’s initial deliveries, leading the team to level the scores and securing the win with a single by Richard Ngarava on the fifth ball.
Zimbabwe’s innings commenced with an aggressive partnership between openers Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani, who contributed 40 runs within 3.2 overs. Bennett was particularly impactful, scoring 43 runs off 35 balls, which included six fours and one six, garnering him the Player of the Match honor. However, the team faced a substantial collapse, losing five wickets for 42 runs, leaving them at 112-6 after a promising start.
Pakistan, who had sealed the three-match series with a previous 2-1 lead, batted first, managing to set a target of 132 runs despite a shaky start at 19-3. Captain Salman Ali Agha provided some stability with a top-score of 32 runs off 32 balls. Contributions from lower-order batsmen, including Arafat Minhas, Qasim Akram, and Abbas Afridi, helped secure a defendable score. Despite their efforts, Zimbabwe’s bowlers effectively kept the run rate under control, with Blessing Muzarabani taking two wickets and other bowlers contributing to Pakistan’s struggles.
The T20 format of cricket has gained immense popularity, providing fast-paced and entertaining matches. The recently concluded T20I series between Zimbabwe and Pakistan saw Pakistan taking an early lead, setting a challenging task for Zimbabwe in the final match. Given the importance of winning for morale and series standing, this match became crucial for Zimbabwe to avoid a complete series sweep.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe showcased resilience and determination in their final T20I against Pakistan, securing a two-wicket victory. Despite a shaky middle order, the standout performances from Brian Bennett and the debut of Tinotenda Maposa proved pivotal in their success. Pakistan, though victorious in the series, faced challenges that highlighted their need for consistency. This final match served to underline both teams’ potential in the T20 format.
Original Source: dunyanews.tv
