Pakistan vs Zimbabwe T20 Match Highlights

In the second T20 International between Zimbabwe and Pakistan on December 3, 2024, at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Pakistan secured a commanding 10-wicket victory, clinching the three-match series with one game remaining.

Zimbabwe Innings:

Opting to bat first, Zimbabwe’s openers, Brian Bennett (21) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (16), provided a steady start, reaching 37 without loss. However, the innings unraveled dramatically, with the team collapsing to 57 all out in 12.4 overs—their lowest T20I total to date. Left-arm wrist spinner Sufiyan Muqeem was instrumental in this collapse, delivering career-best figures of 5 wickets for just 3 runs in 2.4 overs. He was well-supported by Abbas Afridi, who claimed 2 wickets.

Pakistan Innings:

Chasing a modest target of 58, Pakistan’s openers, Saim Ayub and Omair Yousuf, displayed aggressive intent. Ayub scored an unbeaten 36 off 18 balls, while Yousuf contributed 22 not out from 15 deliveries. Their unbroken partnership saw Pakistan reach 59 without loss in just 5.3 overs, marking one of their most dominant T20I victories in terms of balls remaining.

Key Performances:

• Sufiyan Muqeem: His exceptional spell of 5 for 3 earned him the Player of the Match award and was pivotal in dismantling Zimbabwe’s batting lineup.
• Saim Ayub: His quickfire 36 not out set the tone for a swift chase, ensuring Pakistan’s openers finished the match without losing a wicket.

Series Context:

This victory gives Pakistan an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, following their 57-run win in the first T20I. The final match is scheduled at the same venue on Thursday, December 5, 2024, where Pakistan will aim for a series sweep, and Zimbabwe will look to regain some pride.