Fakhar and Nawaz Guide Pakistan to First Tri-Series Win Over Zimbabwe
Pakistan Secure First Points With a Five-Wicket Win
Pakistan opened their tri-series campaign with a determined and well-constructed five-wicket victory against Zimbabwe in Rawalpindi. Despite an early top-order wobble and a disciplined effort from Zimbabwe’s seamers, Pakistan successfully chased down 147, finishing on 151 for 5 with four balls to spare. The win was shaped by key contributions from Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan, and Mohammad Nawaz, who ensured Pakistan collected their first points of the tournament.
For Zimbabwe, it was a tale of two halves. They dominated the early part of their innings and appeared on track for a total well above 170. Yet, a dramatic collapse in the middle overs—where they lost seven wickets for 37 runs—undermined what could have been a match-defining total. Although their bowlers fought bravely, especially in the powerplay, the insufficient total eventually cost them the match.
Zimbabwe’s Strong Start Turns Into a Costly Collapse
Zimbabwe began their innings with impressive intent. Their openers combined superb timing with positive stroke play, hitting 11 fours and one six inside the first seven overs. Their scoring rate hovered near ten per over, and Pakistan’s initial spin overs were punished for 26 runs. At 91 for 1, Zimbabwe appeared fully in control.
However, momentum shifted sharply once Mohammad Nawaz entered the attack for his second over. Nawaz dismissed Tadiwanashe Marumani with a full toss that was mistimed to deep square leg. Although the wicket was not the result of a ripping delivery, it triggered panic in the Zimbabwe batting lineup.
From that moment onward, Zimbabwe’s innings spiralled. They slipped from 91 for 1 in the 11th over to 128 for 8 in the 19th, as Pakistan’s spinners took charge. Saim Ayub and Abrar Ahmed joined Nawaz in applying consistent pressure. Although there was a dramatic turn on offer, the spinners cleverly beat batters in the air, changed pace smartly, and forced dot balls—creating frustration and confusion.
Two key run-outs added to Zimbabwe’s troubles, resulting from misjudged singles caused by Pakistan’s relentless pressure. Had it not been for Sikandar Raza’s unbeaten 34 off 24 balls, Zimbabwe’s total would have been even lower. Raza played with determination, opting for calculated risks to guide his team toward a defendable final total of 147 for 8.
Nawaz Leads the Fightback With the Ball
Among all Pakistan bowlers, Mohammad Nawaz was easily the standout performer. His spell of 2 for 22 in four overs was defined by control, accuracy, and clever variation. Importantly, his economy rate of 5.50 was the lowest among bowlers who completed their full quota. Even when Zimbabwe’s top order was firing, Nawaz kept Pakistan competitive.
His first wicket opened the floodgates, and his second, forcing Ryan Burl to hole out, further damaged Zimbabwe’s prospects. Nawaz kept a tight line outside off stump, allowing very few release balls. His performance ensured Pakistan restricted Zimbabwe to a manageable total, especially considering the explosive start the visitors had made.
Zimbabwe Seamers Put Pakistan Under Pressure Early
Defending a modest total requires early breakthroughs, and Zimbabwe’s seamers delivered exactly that. Their bowling effort in the power play was exceptional. Brad Evans produced a brilliant fifth over, dismissing both Sahibzada Farhan and Babar Azam, putting Pakistan in trouble at 25 for 2. Soon after, Tinotenda Maposa removed Salman Agha, leaving Pakistan reeling at 31 for 3 by the end of the power play.
In the next few overs, Zimbabwe continued building pressure as Pakistan struggled to find boundaries. When Saim Ayub was dismissed by Graeme Cremer in the 10th over, the required rate climbed to nine runs per over. At this stage, Zimbabwe were firmly ahead, and Pakistan needed stability to avoid a potential upset.
Fakhar Zaman’s Comeback Knock Steadies Pakistan
Under growing pressure, Fakhar Zaman delivered a crucial, composed, and timely innings. Playing his comeback T20I knock, he scored 44 off 32 balls. His approach was mature and calculated. Instead of playing rash shots early, he worked singles, rotated strike, and waited for loose deliveries before attacking. This allowed Pakistan to rebuild without slipping further.
Fakhar stitched an important 61-run partnership with Usman Khan, who showed excellent temperament under pressure. Usman calmly absorbed early pressure and later shifted gears once the spinners were introduced. His unbeaten 37 off 34 was a perfect foil to Fakhar’s aggression.
Together, they broke Zimbabwe’s momentum and revived Pakistan’s chase. By the time Fakhar was dismissed, Pakistan were back in control.
Nawaz Completes an All-Round Performance
After Fakhar’s dismissal, the required rate again began to creep upward. Pakistan needed someone to maintain tempo, and once again, Mohammad Nawaz stepped up. Coming in with the match still in the balance, Nawaz counterattacked immediately. He struck 20 off 12 balls, including one powerful six and two boundaries.
Nawaz did receive a moment of luck. Brian Bennett dropped a straightforward chance at midwicket when Nawaz was on nine, with 15 runs needed off 10 balls. Had Zimbabwe taken that catch, the final overs may have been much more tense. But Nawaz capitalised on his reprieve, steering Pakistan over the line and hitting the winning boundary.
His all-round contribution—tight bowling followed by a match-winning cameo made him Pakistan’s most valuable player in the contest.
Conclusion: Pakistan Start the Series Strong
Pakistan’s five-wicket win set the tone for their tri-series campaign. Although Zimbabwe showed moments of brilliance, especially with the new ball, their innings collapse ultimately proved decisive. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Nawaz, turned the match around after a tough start. Later, Fakhar, Usman, and Nawaz guided the chase with smart cricket and controlled batting.
For Zimbabwe, the early dominance and spirited bowling display were positives. However, their inability to capitalise on a strong platform kept them from posting a winning total.
Pakistan now move forward with confidence, having secured their first points and gained crucial momentum in the tri-series.
