Kamran Ghulam’s maiden ODI century and a clinical bowling performance powered Pakistan to a commanding 99-run victory over Zimbabwe in the third and final ODI of the series at Bulawayo. The win not only sealed the series 2-1 in Pakistan’s favor but also marked their second consecutive come-from-behind ODI series victory, following their triumph in Australia earlier this month.
Pakistan’s decision to bat first after winning the toss saw them post a competitive 303 for 6, with Ghulam leading the way with an imperious 103. He was well-supported by Abdullah Shafique, who contributed a solid 50, while a late flurry of runs in the final five overs added 69 runs, thanks to some sloppy bowling from Zimbabwe in the death overs.
Ghulam’s Ton Anchors Pakistan’s Innings
Pakistan’s innings got off to a solid start with Shafique and debutant Saim Ayub putting on a brisk 50-run opening partnership inside 11 overs. However, Ayub’s promising knock of 23 ended when he mistimed a shot, giving Zimbabwe’s Clive Madande an easy catch at deep backward square leg.
Ghulam, who had a nervy start, nearly edged a delivery back to Sean Williams before finding his rhythm. A six off Williams seemed to free him up, and alongside Shafique, he steered Pakistan to 100 in the 22nd over. But Shafique’s stay ended soon after, as he was trapped in front by Sikandar Raza for 50.
The partnership between Ghulam and Mohammad Rizwan was the highlight of the innings, with Ghulam continuing to build momentum. Rizwan, however, struggled to accelerate and played at a slow strike rate. Ghulam took charge, smashing 27 runs off two overs from Brian Bennett and eventually reached his maiden century with a well-timed pull shot off Raza. Rizwan, who had a slow 25-ball 15, was dismissed by Raza for a six, a mistimed loft.
Pakistan’s progress in the final overs was sensational, as Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled with discipline. A wide-filled over from Richard Ngarava and a 24-run over from Blessing Muzarabani helped Pakistan surge past 300, with the final total set at 303 for 6.
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Zimbabwe’s Chase Falters Despite Ervine’s Fight
Zimbabwe’s response got off to a rocky start, with the opening pair of Joylord Gumbie and Dion Myers dismissed early, both falling to mis-hits while attempting to up the ante. Tadiwanashe Marumani’s aggressive 19 ended in controversial fashion when he was adjudged leg before off Abrar Ahmed, with the ball likely going down leg.
Craig Ervine, Zimbabwe’s best hope, played a valiant knock, reaching a half-century. He was briefly reprieved when Tayyab Tahir dropped a simple catch at midwicket but was eventually dismissed for 51 by Aamer Jamal, who trapped him in front. Ervine’s departure began a Zimbabwean collapse, as the hosts’ batting line-up crumbled under the pressure of Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack.
Sean Williams, who had briefly taken the attack to Pakistan, fell to the extra pace of Haris Rauf, and Zimbabwe’s middle order was soon in disarray. Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl could not provide the much-needed resistance, both falling cheaply to Aamer Jamal and Abrar Ahmed, respectively.
The tail did offer some late fireworks, as Brian Bennett’s quickfire 37 off 27 balls provided Zimbabwe with a glimmer of hope. He attacked the spinners but was eventually dismissed by Abrar Ahmed. Despite a brief stand between Clive Madande and Ngarava, Pakistan wrapped up the Zimbabwean innings in just 40.1 overs. Faisal Akram and Rauf took the final two wickets, completing a dominant 99-run victory.
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Pakistan Clinch Series 2-1
This win not only secured Pakistan’s second successive ODI series victory but also reinforced their position as a rising force in world cricket. Ghulam’s match-winning century and the team’s all-round performance were key to Pakistan’s comfortable win, as they proved too strong for Zimbabwe in all departments.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Pakistan, with the focus now shifting towards the ODI World Cup next year and upcoming preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy.