Pakistan defeat Zimbabwe in first T20 match

BULAWAYO: Pakistan secured a convincing victory over Zimbabwe in the first T20 match played in Bulawayo.

After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first, posting 165 runs for the loss of four wickets in the allotted overs.

In response, Zimbabwe’s batting lineup collapsed, managing only 108 runs in 15.3 overs. The hosts lost their last eight wickets for a mere 31 runs. Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem were the stars with the ball for Pakistan, claiming three wickets each. Haris Rauf took two wickets, while Jahandad Khan chipped in with one.

Also read: ICC might meet again today, PCB Chairman stays put in Dubai

Earlier, Pakistan’s innings was anchored by Usman Khan and Tayyab Tahir, who both scored 39 runs. Saeem Ayub contributed 24, Umair Yousuf added 16, and Agha Salman made 13. Irfan Khan remained unbeaten with 27 runs alongside Tayyab.

Sufiyan Muqeem was named Player of the Match for his three-wicket haul. With this win, Pakistan takes a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The second T20 is scheduled for December 3.