Pakistan overcome Zimbabwe to secure winning start in T20 Tri-Nation Series

RAWALPINDI (Dunya News) – Pakistan made a winning start to the T20 Tri-Nation Series by defeating Zimbabwe by five wickets in Rawalpindi, successfully chasing 151 with four balls to spare.

Usman Khan and Mohammad Nawaz held their nerve in the closing stages after Fakhar Zaman’s crucial knock guided the middle overs. The victory gave Pakistan an early lead in the tournament involving Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.

There was a squad change before the match as Abdul Samad was ruled out due to injury, with Hassan Nawaz added to the Pakistan lineup. Having recently defeated Sri Lanka in the ODI series, Pakistan entered the contest with momentum and a commitment to giving opportunities to emerging players.

Zimbabwe innings

Zimbabwe posted 147 for 8 in their 20 overs. Brian Bennett led the scoring with an impressive 49 off 36 balls, including six boundaries. Tadiwanashe Marumani contributed 30 from 22 deliveries, while captain Sikandar Raza scored a brisk 34 off 24 with four fours and a six, displaying command in the middle overs. Brendan Taylor added 14 before being run out by Babar Azam, while Ryan Burl made 8 off 8.

Pakistan’s bowlers maintained pressure through consistent spells. Mohammad Nawaz took 2 for 22, while Salman Ali Agha removed the dangerous Bennett. Shaheen Afridi claimed 1 for 31, and Salman Mirza and Faheem Ashraf provided tight overs to restrict Zimbabwe’s acceleration. Zimbabwe lost momentum in the final overs, finishing with 147 and just three wides in extras.

Pakistan’s chase

Pakistan replied with 151 for 5 in 19.2 overs. Fakhar Zaman played a pivotal innings of 44 from 32 balls, stabilising the chase after early wickets. Usman Khan remained unbeaten on 37 from 28, while Mohammad Nawaz scored a vital 21 from 12 to close out the match in the final over.

Pakistan’s top order fell early. Farhan was bowled by Evans for 16, Saim Ayub was caught by Musekiwa off Cremer for 22, and Babar Azam departed lbw for a duck. Salman Ali Agha added just one before being dismissed by Maposa. However, a 61-run partnership between Fakhar and Usman restored control.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers produced notable spells. Brad Evans picked up 2 for 26, Ngarava took 1 for 31, Maposa claimed 1 for 29, and Cremer secured 1 for 27. Sikandar Raza bowled tightly for his four overs, conceding just 29 but remained wicketless. Pakistan sealed victory with four balls remaining.

Trophy unveiled

Trophy unveiling for the series took place in Rawalpindi, with the captains of Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe expressing optimism about their respective prospects. However, Sri Lanka face early challenges after captain Charith Asalanka and Fernando returned home due to health issues. In response, Dasun Shanaka has stepped in to lead Sri Lanka for the remainder of the tournament.

T20 tri-nation series trophy unveiled ahead of Pakistan-Zimbabwe opener

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha said the recent ODI series win has boosted team morale and reaffirmed their skill levels heading into the T20 contest. He confirmed that emerging players will be given chances throughout the tournament, building depth within the squad. He highlighted the importance of momentum while managing player workload effectively.

From the Sri Lankan camp, Dasun Shanaka commented that the team are determined to learn from the ODI series and avoid repeating past mistakes. With new leadership and tactical adjustments, Sri Lanka seek to make a strong comeback in the T20 format.

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza shared confidence in his side’s progress, explaining that the team have focused on building consistency and enhancing all-round capability. He added that Zimbabwe will aim to reach the final of the tri-series, emphasising resilience, competitive spirit and growth-focused planning.