The ZIM vs PAK 3rd ODI 2024 in Bulawayo on November 28, delivered an exciting conclusion to the series. Pakistan emerged victorious, defending their 303-run target with a commanding performance, securing the series 2-1. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the match and highlights the key moments.
Pakistan Sets a Challenging Target
Electing to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan posted an impressive 303/6 in their allotted 50 overs. Kamran Ghulam played a standout role with a brilliant century:
- Kamran Ghulam: 103 off 99 balls, smashing 10 fours and 4 sixes at a strike rate of 104.04.
- Abdullah Shafique contributed a steady 50 off 68 balls, laying the foundation.
- Mohammad Rizwan (37) and Salman Agha (30) added valuable middle-order runs, while Tayyab Tahir finished strong with a quick 29 off 16 balls.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Sikandar Raza (2/47) and Richard Ngarava (2/55), tried to contain the Pakistani batters but struggled against Ghulam’s aggression.
Zimbabwe’s Struggle in the Chase
Chasing 304, Zimbabwe faced an uphill battle, folding for 204 in just 40.1 overs. Despite a fighting fifty from skipper Craig Ervine and quick runs from Brian Bennett, the hosts fell short due to regular wickets and disciplined bowling by Pakistan.
Key Performances:
- Craig Ervine: Anchored the innings with 51 runs off 63 balls.
- Brian Bennett: Blazed his way to 37 off 27 balls, hitting 4 fours and 2 sixes.
- Sean Williams: Added 24 but failed to convert his start.
Pakistan’s bowlers dominated the game:
- Saim Ayub: 2/29 in 4 overs, including the wickets of Gumbie and Myers.
- Haris Rauf: 2/34 in 7.1 overs, striking at crucial moments.
- Abrar Ahmed and Aamer Jamal also chipped in with 2 wickets each.
Turning Points of ZIM vs PAK 3rd ODI 2024
- Kamran Ghulam’s Century: Ghulam’s masterclass innings set the tone for Pakistan’s imposing total.
- Powerplay Struggles for Zimbabwe: Early wickets (6-3 in 2.5 overs) derailed the chase, leaving the middle order under pressure.
- Consistent Bowling Effort: Pakistan’s bowlers maintained discipline, preventing Zimbabwe from building partnerships.
Match Summary – ZIM vs PAK 3rd ODI 2024
- Pakistan: 303/6 in 50 overs
Top Performers: Kamran Ghulam (103), Abdullah Shafique (50)
Best Bowlers: Sikandar Raza (2/47), Richard Ngarava (2/55) - Zimbabwe: 204 all out in 40.1 overs
Top Performers: Craig Ervine (51), Brian Bennett (37)
Best Bowlers: Saim Ayub (2/29), Haris Rauf (2/34)
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What’s Next for Both Teams?
Pakistan’s win reinforces their dominance in the series and boosts their confidence ahead of their T20I series against Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe will need to regroup and address their batting vulnerabilities to improve in upcoming challenges.
