Pakistan secured a 57-run victory over Zimbabwe in the first T20I match, led by Tayyab Tahir and Irfan Khan’s strong fifth-wicket partnership. Batting first, Pakistan scored 165-4, while Zimbabwe was bowled out for 108. Despite a promising start, Zimbabwe faltered, losing their last four wickets cheaply. The teams will compete again later this week.
In the inaugural T20I match against Zimbabwe, Pakistan secured a commanding victory by 57 runs, thanks to a crucial unbeaten fifth-wicket partnership of 65 runs between Tayyab Tahir and Irfan Khan. Batting first after winning the toss at Bulawayo, Pakistan amassed a total of 165-4. Zimbabwe struggled in response, being bowled out for 108 in just 15.3 overs. Tahir contributed 39 runs, while Usman Khan also scored 39, marking a solid performance for the visitors. Irfan Khan added a brisk 27 runs off only 15 deliveries, helping propel the team’s total.
Zimbabwe’s innings saw promising starts from Tadiwanashe Marumani and Sikandar Raza, who formed a 59-run partnership. However, their hopes dwindled as Marumani was run out after scoring 33, followed shortly by Raza’s dismissal for 39. Zimbabwe collapsed under pressure, losing their last four wickets for a mere 13 runs. Jahandad Khan claimed the pivotal wicket of Raza, and Sufiyan Muqeem devastated the tail by taking three wickets. The two sides are scheduled to face each other again twice this week.
This match serves as the opening fixture of a three-match T20I series between Pakistan and Zimbabwe. Following a successful ODI series in which Pakistan triumphed 2-1, this T20I series was set to further showcase their dominance in white-ball cricket. Pakistan’s ability to recover and build a strong partnership after a shaky start indicates their competitive spirit, while Zimbabwe’s struggles reflect their need to tighten their bowling and fielding to prevent similar collapses in the future.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s victory in the first T20I against Zimbabwe highlights their robust batting lineup and strategic resilience. Tayyab Tahir and Irfan Khan’s partnership proved pivotal in establishing a commanding total. Despite flashes of promise from Zimbabwe, their inability to maintain performance under pressure resulted in a significant loss. As the teams prepare for their next matches, Zimbabwe will need to regroup and improve to challenge Pakistan effectively.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
