Zimbabwe achieved a stunning 80-run victory against Pakistan in the first ODI, utilizing the DLS method after rain affected the match. Sikandar Raza’s key contributions with bat and ball were pivotal in leading Zimbabwe to a total of 205, while Pakistan faltered at 60-6 before rain ended play, giving Zimbabwe a 1-0 series lead. This match highlighted the experimental lineup of Pakistan, who rested several star players.
In a remarkable display of skill and resilience, the Zimbabwe cricket team triumphed over a new-look Pakistan side by an impressive 80 runs using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method in a rain-affected first ODI at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on November 24, 2024. All-rounder Sikandar Raza played a pivotal role, contributing a vital 39 runs and forming a crucial 62-run partnership with Richard Ngarava, who scored 48, lifting Zimbabwe to a total of 205 all out after a challenging start at 125-7.
During Pakistan’s innings, under overcast conditions, Raza further distinguished himself by taking two wickets in quick succession, leading to Pakistan’s struggle at 60-6 in 21 overs before rain interrupted play, concluding the match and handing Zimbabwe a 1-0 series lead. This match marked a significant shift for Pakistan, as they rested key players including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Babar Azam, opting to experiment with their squad ahead of the forthcoming Champions Trophy.
The match saw early promise for Zimbabwe as Tadiwanashe Marumani and Joylord Gumbie pushed to a solid start, scoring 40 runs for the opening partnership. However, the introduction of Pakistan’s spinners, notably debutant Faisal Akram, who claimed three wickets for 24 runs, and vice-captain Salman Ali Agha, who took three for 42, quickly stifled Zimbabwe’s momentum, rendering them in a precarious position at 125-7.
Nevertheless, Raza and Ngarava’s tactical partnership salvaged the innings to set a respectable target. Following a brisk start by Zimbabwe’s bowlers, Blessing Muzarabani quickly dismantled Pakistan’s top order. Despite the efforts of Kamran Ghulam and captain Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan succumbed to a string of wickets against Zimbabwe’s spinners, with Raza securing two key wickets, ultimately leading to Pakistan’s loss.
The context of the match rests within a series of one-day internationals between Zimbabwe and Pakistan, with both teams looking to evaluate their strengths and strategies for upcoming tournaments, particularly the Champions Trophy. This match presented an opportunity for Zimbabwe to assert themselves against a Pakistan team that chose to test its depth by resting prominent players. The impact of weather on play particularly influenced the result, as the DLS method was employed to determine the outcome after interruptions by rain.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s victory over Pakistan in the opening ODI serves as a testament to their resilience and depth, especially in challenging conditions. Sikandar Raza’s contribution as both a top-order batsman and a wicket-taker was instrumental in this success. The match reflects Pakistan’s ongoing changes and the implications for their preparation for future competitions. As the series progresses, both teams will look to build on this match’s outcomes.
Original Source: apnews.com
