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Pakistan Thumps Zimbabwe by 10 Wickets to Draw Level in the Ongoing ODIs
In the world of cricket, one-sided matches often leave a lasting impression, especially when a dominant team, after facing setbacks, bounces back with a resounding victory. That is exactly what happened in the third One-Day International (ODI) between Pakistan and Zimbabwe. After a tense series opener and a hard-fought second ODI, Pakistan delivered a blistering performance to demolish Zimbabwe by 10 wickets, drawing the series level at 1-1. The comprehensive victory, powered by an all-round display from Pakistan’s batters and bowlers, served as a perfect response to the previous loss and set the stage for an exciting decider.
ThumpsThe Context: A Series in the Balance
Going into the third match, the series between the two teams was evenly poised, with Zimbabwe leading 1-0 after securing an impressive win in the second ODI. Pakistan, known for their unpredictable nature, had been expected to bounce back strongly in this game, especially with a home advantage. However, the loss in the previous match had placed significant pressure on the team. There was no room for error if Pakistan wanted to avoid losing the series.
The stage was set at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, where the pitch promised a good contest for both bat and ball. The weather was ideal, with no interruptions expected, and both teams were eager to get the series back on track. Zimbabwe, having won the second ODI with a solid all-round performance, were aiming to seal the series with a win, while Pakistan was focused on leveling things up.
Thumps Zimbabwe’s Batting Struggles: A Day to Forget
Zimbabwe’s batting, which had been the cornerstone of their success in the previous ODI, came under immense pressure in this match. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Zimbabwe’s top order was immediately tested by the quality of Pakistan’s bowling attack, which was led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf.
Shaheen Afridi was in scintillating form, proving why he is considered one of the best fast bowlers in the world. His opening spell was aggressive and accurate, consistently troubling Zimbabwe’s openers. He struck early, sending Chamu Chibhabha packing with a beautifully pitched delivery that found the edge and was caught behind. Shaheen’s first spell was a statement of intent, and it immediately put Zimbabwe on the back foot.
Despite the early setback, Zimbabwe’s most experienced player, Craig Ervine, attempted to stabilise the innings. However, his resistance was short-lived. Haris Rauf, who has been one of Pakistan’s most consistent fast bowlers in recent years, made an impact in the middle overs. Rauf’s pace and bounce were too much for the Zimbabwean batsmen to handle, as he accounted for both Ervine and Sean Williams, reducing Zimbabwe to 50-3 by the 15th over.
Zimbabwe’s middle order was unable to recover, as Mohammad Nawaz, who was introduced into the attack, struck crucial blows. The spin duo of Nawaz and Shadab Khan controlled the middle overs, not allowing Zimbabwe any breathing space. Nawaz’s control over the ball and ability to generate turn kept Zimbabwe’s batsmen in check, and he was rewarded with a wicket. Wessly Madhevere, the young opener who had shown promise in the earlier ODIs, was dismissed for just 12 runs.
As the wickets continued to tumble, the Zimbabwean lower order was unable to offer much resistance. The Zimbabwean batting lineup, which had been impressive in patches, was eventually bowled out for a mere 163 runs in just 40.3 overs. It was a comprehensive collapse, as Pakistan’s bowlers dominated throughout. The wickets were spread across the bowling attack, with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf picking up 3 wickets each, while Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan added to the carnage with a wicket apiece.
Thumps Pakistan’s Dominance with the Bat: A Chanceless Chase
With a modest target of 164 runs set by Zimbabwe, Pakistan was confident of chasing down the total, given the form of their openers. The onus was on Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq, who have been the backbone of Pakistan’s batting for some time now, to anchor the chase.
The chase began in calm fashion, with Pakistan’s openers taking their time to assess the pitch and conditions. However, the Zimbabwean bowlers found little assistance from the pitch, and the pressure of defending such a small total started to mount. Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq batted with composure, allowing the occasional boundary while keeping the scoreboard ticking with singles and twos.
Imam-ul-Haq, in particular, played an impressive knock, exhibiting his trademark elegance and control. He appeared untroubled by the Zimbabwean bowlers and capitalized on any loose deliveries. His partnership with Babar Azam was solid and efficient, with both players rotating the strike well and building a steady foundation for the chase.
Babar Azam, as always, played with his characteristic poise. The captain of Pakistan showed why he is regarded as one of the finest limited-overs players in the world, guiding his team toward the target with ease. His ability to find gaps and his sublime timing made his knock a treat for the fans in attendance.
The Zimbabwean bowlers, despite putting in an honest effort, were unable to break the partnership. Luke Jongwe and Richard Ngarava, the two frontline seamers for Zimbabwe, tried hard but lacked the penetration to disturb Pakistan’s openers. They bowled tight lines, but the lack of pressure from the Zimbabwean fielders, who were often spread wide, allowed Pakistan’s openers to cruise through the chase.
By the time Imam-ul-Haq reached his half-century, the target was well within reach. He and Babar Azam continued to pick the right moments to accelerate, never letting Zimbabwe’s bowlers settle into a rhythm. The partnership eventually led Pakistan to victory, with Babar Azam finishing unbeaten on 70 and Imam-ul-Haq scoring a patient 64. Pakistan comfortably reached the target of 164 runs without losing a single wicket, wrapping up the chase in just 27.3 overs.
Thumps Pakistan’s All-Round Performance: A Statement of Intent
Pakistan’s victory by 10 wickets was not just a result of a clinical chase but a reflection of their all-round dominance. The bowlers, led by Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, had made quick work of Zimbabwe’s batting lineup, reducing them to a small total. In reply, Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq ensured that there were no hiccups, bringing the team home without any loss.
The 10-wicket win was a much-needed statement from Pakistan, who had been under pressure following the loss in the second ODI. It also allowed Pakistan to draw level in the series, with everything to play for in the final match. The team’s response showed their depth in both batting and bowling, and with players like Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam, and Imam-ul-Haq firing in tandem, Pakistan showed that they were ready for the challenge ahead.
Thumps Conclusion: A Crucial Win for Pakistan
Pakistan’s dominant victory in the third ODI was a comprehensive effort, with the team showcasing both discipline and skill. Zimbabwe’s hopes of sealing the series were dashed by an outstanding all-round performance from Pakistan. The series now stands at 1-1, with the decider to come, and both teams will be looking to give it their all in what promises to be an exciting conclusion to a tightly contested series.
For Zimbabwe, it was a day to forget, but they have shown promise in the series so far. The final match will be crucial in determining the series winner, but one thing is certain – Pakistan’s dominant victory in this match has set the tone for what promises to be an exciting decider.
