The cricket rivalry between Zimbabwe and Pakistan has produced some thrilling encounters, with recent matches showcasing competitive cricket and unexpected results. The latest series between these two nations delivered exciting contests across different formats, providing fans with memorable moments and outstanding individual performances.
Recent Series Overview
The most recent Pakistan tour of Zimbabwe in 2024-25 featured both ODI and T20I matches, with mixed fortunes for both teams. Pakistan’s tour included three ODIs and three T20Is, played at venues in Bulawayo, providing plenty of entertainment for cricket enthusiasts.
1st ODI Match Scorecard: Zimbabwe’s Historic Victory
Match Details
- Date: November 24, 2024
- Venue: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
- Result: Zimbabwe won by 80 runs (DLS method)
- Player of the Match: Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe)
- Toss: Pakistan won and elected to field
Zimbabwe Innings Summary
Zimbabwe posted a competitive total of 205 runs in 40.2 overs, with several batters contributing valuable runs. The innings featured notable performances from Sikandar Raza (39 runs off 56 balls) and Richard Ngarava, who played a crucial knock of 48 runs from 52 balls, including five boundaries and one six.
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tadiwanashe Marumani | 29 | 41 | 2 | 1 | 70.73 |
| Sikandar Raza | 39 | 56 | 6 | 0 | 69.64 |
| Sean Williams | 23 | 17 | 2 | 2 | 135.29 |
| Brian Bennett | 20 | 20 | 3 | 0 | 100.00 |
| Richard Ngarava | 48 | 52 | 5 | 1 | 92.31 |
Bowling Performance
Pakistan’s bowling attack was led by Salman Ali Agha, who claimed three wickets for 42 runs in nine overs. Faisal Akram also impressed with three wickets for 24 runs in eight overs, while Mohammad Hasnain and Aamir Jamal each picked up one wicket.
Pakistan Innings Collapse
Pakistan’s chase was derailed early as they were reduced to 60/6 in 21 overs when the match was affected by weather conditions. The DLS method was applied, resulting in Zimbabwe’s victory by 80 runs. Mohammad Rizwan remained unbeaten on 19 runs, but the team’s batting performance was disappointing.
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mohammad Rizwan (not out) | 19 | 43 | 1 | 0 | 44.19 |
| Kamran Ghulam | 17 | 28 | 3 | 0 | 60.71 |
| Saim Ayub | 11 | 17 | 2 | 0 | 64.71 |
Series Results
1st T20I: Pakistan’s Dominant Victory
Pakistan bounced back in the T20I format, winning the first match by a commanding margin. The visitors posted 165/4 in their 20 overs before restricting Zimbabwe to just 108 runs, with the hosts suffering a batting collapse from 77/2 to be bowled out completely.
2nd T20I: Pakistan’s Clinical Performance
The second T20I saw Pakistan continue their dominance in the shorter format, securing a 10-wicket victory. Zimbabwe managed only 57 runs in their innings, with Pakistan’s bowlers delivering an exceptional performance. Saim Ayub and Omair Yousuf then chased down the target without losing a wicket.
3rd T20I: Zimbabwe’s Thrilling Victory
Zimbabwe saved face in the final T20I with a nail-biting 2-wicket victory. Pakistan set a target of 133 runs, which Zimbabwe chased down with one ball to spare. Richard Ngarava hit the winning runs dramatically, with the ball deflecting off the stumps for the decisive run.
Key Players and Performances
Zimbabwe’s Star Performers
Sikandar Raza emerged as Zimbabwe’s standout Player throughout the series, contributing with both bat & ball. His all-round performance in the ODI series earned him the Player of the Match awards in the first ODI. Brian Bennett also showed promise with consistent batting displays.
Pakistan’s Top Contributors
Saim Ayub was Pakistan’s most consistent performer across formats, contributing significant runs in multiple matches. Mohammad Rizwan led from the front as captain and wicket-keeper, while the bowling attack featuring Salman Ali Agha, Faisal Akram, and Mohammad Hasnain delivered crucial performances.
Statistical Highlights
Head-to-Head Record
Pakistan holds a significant advantage in the overall head-to-head record against Zimbabwe across all formats. However, Zimbabwe’s recent performances have shown improvement, with the team capable of competing against more vigorous opponents on home soil.
Series Impact on Rankings
The mixed results from this series had implications for both teams’ international rankings. Zimbabwe’s ODI victory was particularly significant as it demonstrated their ability to defeat higher-ranked opposition, while Pakistan’s T20I series win maintained their status in the shorter format.
Ground and Conditions
The matches were played at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, which provided good batting conditions but also offered assistance to bowlers. The DLS method came into play during the first ODI due to weather interruptions, adding an element of complexity to the match situation.
Future Implications
This series served as valuable preparation for both teams ahead of upcoming international commitments. Pakistan’s mixed performance highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in ODI cricket, while Zimbabwe’s competitive showing boosted confidence for future series.
The Zimbabwe vs Pakistan cricket encounters continue to provide entertaining cricket, with both teams showing different strengths across various formats. These matches demonstrate the unpredictable nature of international cricket and the importance of adapting to other conditions and formats.