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Twitter reactions: Pakistan takes 1-0 lead over Zimbabwe with a dominant win in Bulawayo T20I

James Pier

Pakistan kicked off their T20I sequence in opposition to Zimbabwe with a resounding 57-run victory in Bulawayo. Spearheaded by the distinctive spells of Haris Rauf and Sufiyan Muqeem, the guests bowled out Zimbabwe for simply 108 runs, securing a 1-0 lead within the three-match sequence. Muqeem, together with his career-best figures of three/20, stood out, whereas Rauf’s precision ensured well timed breakthroughs.

A balanced begin for Pakistan after successful the toss

Pakistan opted to bat first with the intent of setting a formidable goal. Nonetheless, the innings acquired off to a shaky begin as opener Omair Yousuf fell early, managing 16 off 13 deliveries earlier than being undone by a pointy supply from Richard Ngarava. Regardless of the early setback, Saim Ayub and Usman Khan introduced stability to the innings with a 39-run partnership for the second wicket. Ayub showcased glimpses of his aptitude with a couple of elegant strokes however fell for 21, mistiming a pull shot that landed safely within the arms of the long-off fielder, leaving Pakistan in a rebuilding section.

Tayyab Tahir’s game-changing innings

Tayyab Tahir emerged because the star of Pakistan’s batting effort with a composed but aggressive knock of 39* off 25 balls. Strolling in at a precarious second, Tahir counterattacked with aptitude, mixing timing and energy. His capability to search out gaps and clear the fielders underlined his batting prowess.

Tahir’s partnership with Irfan Khan was pivotal in turning the innings round. The duo added 65 runs for the fifth wicket, with Tahir anchoring the stand whereas sustaining a brisk scoring price. His shot choice, notably his capability to dispatch something unfastened, proved essential in Pakistan reaching a aggressive complete. Irfan Khan performed an ideal supporting position alongside Tahir, scoring a quickfire 27 off simply 15 balls. His aggressive stroke play not solely complemented Tahir but in addition ensured Pakistan completed the innings on a powerful observe. Irfan’s contribution, although overshadowed by Tahir, performed a significant position within the closing surge of runs.

Additionally READ: ZIM vs PAK 2024: Pakistan’s greatest taking part in XI for the T20I sequence in opposition to Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s shiny begin fades shortly: Sufiyan Muqeem and Haris Rauf shine

Zimbabwe started their chase with promise, regardless of dropping Brian Bennett early. A stable 59-run partnership between Tadiwanashe Marumani and Sikandar Raza saved the hosts in rivalry. Marumani, specifically, regarded comfy in opposition to the pacers and was instrumental in steadying the innings. Nonetheless, a poor name for a second run led to Marumani’s run-out, opening the floodgates for a Zimbabwean collapse. Following his departure, Zimbabwe misplaced wickets in a flurry, with no batter capable of face up to Pakistan’s disciplined bowling.

Muqeem’s left-arm spin was a revelation on the sluggish floor. His variations, notably the googly, left Zimbabwe’s center and decrease order clueless. Rauf, together with his tempo and accuracy, continued to strike at essential junctures, dismissing key batters like Ryan Burl cheaply Zimbabwe captain Raza stood tall amidst the ruins, scoring a valiant 39 off 28 balls. Nonetheless, his dismissal – an ill-timed lower shot caught brilliantly at backward level – sealed Zimbabwe’s destiny.

Right here’s how Twitter reacted:

Additionally READ: ZIM vs PAK 2024: Zimbabwe’s greatest taking part in XI for the T20I sequence in opposition to Pakistan



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