Saim Ayub’s Stunning Century Leads Pakistan to 10-Wicket Victory Over Zimbabwe, Series Tied 1-1
Blawayo: Pakistan leveled the three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe at 1-1 with a dominant 10-wicket win in the second ODI, thanks to a brilliant century by Saim Ayub.
The match, played in Blawayo, saw Zimbabwe win the toss and opt to bat first. However, their batting line-up failed to withstand the pressure from Pakistan’s bowlers. Zimbabwe was bowled out for just 145 runs in 32.3 overs, setting Pakistan a modest target of 146 runs.
Pakistan’s debutant Abrar Ahmed was the star with the ball, claiming 4 wickets, while Salman Ali Agha took 3 wickets. Saim Ayub and Faisal Akram each took one wicket, and one Zimbabwean batter was run out.
In reply, Pakistan chased down the target with ease, reaching 146 runs without losing a wicket in just 19 overs. Saim Ayub scored a match-winning 113 runs, marking his maiden century in One-Day Internationals, while Abdullah Shafique remained unbeaten on 32.
The victory in the second ODI has brought the series to a 1-1 draw. It is worth noting that the first match was affected by rain, with Zimbabwe winning by 80 runs under the DLS method.
In today’s match, Pakistan fielded two debutants—Abrar Ahmed and Tayyab Tahir—who played their first-ever ODI for the national team.