Zimbabwe defeated Pakistan by 80 runs through the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method in the first ODI, scoring 205 runs. Sikandar Raza and Richard Ngarava played pivotal roles with the bat, while Faisal Akram shone with the ball. Pakistan’s batting struggled significantly, leading to their downfall before rain interrupted play.
In a surprising victory in the first One Day International match, Zimbabwe triumphed over Pakistan by 80 runs under the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method at Queens Sports Club. After being put to bat first, Zimbabwe was struggling at 125-7 but managed to post a total of 205 runs, thanks to a critical 62-run partnership between Sikandar Raza and Richard Ngarava for the eighth wicket. Pakistan’s batting lineup faltered, collapsing to 60-6 before rain intervened, finalizing Zimbabwe’s victory.
Debutant left arm wrist spinner Faisal Akram performed notably with figures of 3-24, while offspinner Salman Agha also contributed significantly with 3-42. The match was an essential opening for the three-match ODI series, setting a competitive atmosphere for future encounters. The teams are set to face each other again in Bulawayo on Tuesday and Thursday.
This ODI match marks the beginning of a three-match series between Zimbabwe and Pakistan. The Duckworth–Lewis–Stern method is a standard calculation used in limited-overs cricket to adjust targets in matches interrupted by rain. Zimbabwe’s performance, especially from players like Sikandar Raza and Richard Ngarava, highlights the team’s ability to recover from dire situations, suggesting a competitive edge against a previously dominant Pakistani side.
Zimbabwe’s victory in this ODI against Pakistan underscores the team’s resilience and determination, particularly after a shaky start. The performance of the bowlers, especially debutant Faisal Akram, indicates a developing strength within the Zimbabwean bowling lineup. As the series continues, both teams will be eager to adjust their strategies for the upcoming matches in Bulawayo.
Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com
