Pakistan's bowlers delivered a clinical performance as they restricted Zimbabwe to just 205 runs in the first ODI of the series at Bulawayo.
After winning the toss and choosing to field, Pakistan's bowling attack, led by Faisal Akram, who claimed 3 wickets for 24 runs, and Mohammad Hasnain, with 1 wicket for 43 runs, dominated the Zimbabwean batting lineup.
Zimbabwe's innings saw Richard Ngarava top the scorecard with a solid 48 runs off 52 balls, but the hosts were unable to build any significant partnerships. The innings ended in the 40th over with Zimbabwe all out for 205 runs.
Pakistan's decision to bowl first paid off, with Zimbabwe's batting faltering against disciplined bowling, especially during the middle overs. Faisal Akram’s left-arm spin was particularly effective, while Hasnain’s pace kept the pressure on throughout the innings.
Ngarava, reflecting on the innings, said, "I'm quite happy about it, would have been nice to get a fifty but trying to bat for the team was the main thing. The surface was quite slow, but we expect such conditions here." He added that the team believes they still have a chance with early wickets in hand.
With the match in their hands, Pakistan’s 90.11% win probability suggests they are well on their way to securing victory, barring any major disruptions.
Toss
Pakistan won the toss and and opted to field first against Zimbabwe in first ODI being played at Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.
Both team are gearing up for the first ODI in Bulawayo, with overcast skies and a strong chance of rain interruptions looming over the match.
Despite the weather concerns, the covers have been removed, and players are actively preparing on the field, raising hopes for a timely start.
Pakistan, under newly-appointed captain Mohammad Rizwan, is fielding a squad featuring several fresh faces. With key players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah rested, this series provides an opportunity for young talent to make a mark.
The team’s pace attack remains formidable, despite the absence of its premier bowlers. Rizwan emphasized the team's strong preparation and high intensity in the lead-up to the series, expressing optimism for a solid performance.
For Zimbabwe, this series is another chance to build on their recent successes, including a victorious campaign at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier.
Their squad includes five players who were part of the historic Super Over win against Pakistan in 2020. Zimbabwe’s focus is on building momentum for the 2027 World Cup, while Pakistan is using the series as a stepping stone toward the 2025 Champions Trophy, which they will host.
The match also highlights Pakistan’s ongoing struggle for consistency amidst frequent changes in coaching staff and squad rotations. However, the players appear increasingly adept at adapting to this environment, with hopes of establishing stability and building a winning streak.
Both teams aim to balance experimentation with performance, cricket fans can expect an intriguing contest in Bulawayo, weather permitting.
Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Kamran Ghulam, Haseebullah Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Aamir Jamal, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Faisal Akram
