Zimbabwe secured a thrilling two-wicket win against Pakistan in the final T20I, despite earlier defeats in the series. Tailender Richard Ngarava played a decisive role, scoring the winning run as Zimbabwe chased down a target of 133 runs with one ball remaining. Brian Bennett’s strong performance and Tinotenda Maposa’s crucial runs in the final over were instrumental for the hosts, while Pakistan rested key players as they prepared for future competitions.
In a riveting contest in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe clinched a two-wicket victory over Pakistan in the final T20I, marking a notable comeback after losing the first two matches of the series. Zimbabwe, needing 12 runs from the last over to secure the win, saw tailender Richard Ngarava play a crucial role, scoring the winning run with just one ball remaining. While Pakistan, having rested several key players, set a target of 132 runs, wicketkeeper-batsman Brian Bennett’s 43 runs provided a strong foundation for the hosts, despite a middle-order collapse. Captain Sikandar Raza’s dismissal added to their woes, but Timotenda Maposa’s quick runs in the final over ensured that Zimbabwe crossed the finish line with a dramatic finish, achieving a total score of 133 for 8. Pakistan’s top scorer Agha contributed 32 runs in this match, while Blessing Muzarabani led the bowling department with two crucial wickets.
The T20I series featured three matches, with Pakistan dominating the earlier matches by comfortable margins, winning by 57 runs and 10 wickets respectively. Zimbabwe’s final match presented an opportunity for the home team to salvage pride in a series that saw them unable to secure victories in previous outings. The encounter showcased emerging talents, especially among the Pakistan squad, as they prepare for an upcoming tour in South Africa covering all formats of the game, which is a critical phase for they have already achieved success in the one-day international series against Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe’s dramatic victory provides them with a much-needed morale boost ahead of a challenging series against Afghanistan, allowing them to build momentum. Pakistan, despite the loss, can take solace in the young talent showcased during the series, particularly the performances of Saim Ayub and Sufiyan Muqeem, indicating a promising future for their squad in international cricket. This match highlighted both the unpredictability of T20 cricket and the emerging prowess of Zimbabwe on their home turf.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
