Pak-W vs ZIM-W: Pakistan Women crush Zimbabwe by 168 runs in ODI opener

KARACHI: Pakistan Women delivered a dominant all-round performance to defeat Zimbabwe Women by a massive 168 runs in the first ODI of the three-match series at the National Stadium in Karachi, taking a 1-0 lead.

Batting first after Zimbabwe opted to bowl, Pakistan posted an imposing total of 330-5 in their 50 overs. The innings was anchored by a brilliant knock from Sadaf Shams, who scored 98 off 130 balls, narrowly missing out on a century.

Sidra Ameen added a solid 67 from 59 deliveries, while Najihah Alvi provided late acceleration with an unbeaten 56 off just 30 balls, powering the hosts to a commanding total.

In response, Zimbabwe Women struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 162 in 36.4 overs. Beloved Biza top-scored with 53, while Kelles Ndlovu contributed 31 and Nomvelo Sibanda chipped in with 17, but the chase never threatened Pakistan’s dominance.

Pakistan’s bowlers shared the spoils, with Tasmia Rubab leading the attack with 2-21. Fatima Sana (2-28) and Syeda Aroob Shah (2-38) also played key roles in dismantling the Zimbabwe batting lineup.

Earlier, Zimbabwe’s Precious Marange was the pick of the bowlers with 3-39, while Kudzie Chigora and Nomvelo Sibanda claimed one wicket each.

With this comprehensive victory, Pakistan Women have taken an early advantage in the series and will look to seal it in the next match.