Introduction:
Sufiyan Muqeem’s record-breaking performance helped Pakistan seal an easy victory over Zimbabwe, as the left-arm wristspinner led his team to an unforgettable win. The Pakistani side made history in Bulawayo, where Muqeem’s stellar 5 for 3 dismantled Zimbabwe’s batting, resulting in their lowest ever T20I total of just 57 runs.
This massive win helped Pakistan claim the T20I series with a remarkable ten-wicket victory, leaving Zimbabwe reeling. Read on to understand how this incredible match unfolded and Muqeem’s historic achievement.
A Dream Start for Zimbabwe: The First Four Overs
Zimbabwe’s opening partnership of Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani gave the impression that a competitive total might be in sight. From the very first over, the pair took on Pakistan’s bowlers, including Jahandad Khan and Abrar Ahmed. Marumani’s early boundaries were particularly impressive, while Bennett showed great timing and power, hitting two boundaries behind point.
By the end of the fourth over, Zimbabwe were at 37 for 0, with their confidence building. Sikandar Raza, winning the toss, had no doubt about opting to bat first, sensing an opportunity to put up a challenging total.
However, the tide turned quickly with Pakistan’s bowlers taking control, and the collapse began soon after.
Muqeem and Afridi Trigger Zimbabwe’s Collapse
Abbas Afridi made the breakthrough, dismissing Marumani with a catch to cover-point. A wicket-maiden followed, and then Haris Rauf’s pace claimed Bennett’s wicket in the very next over. Zimbabwe’s top order was falling apart quickly.
Soon after, Raza was dismissed cheaply, bowled out by Afridi, and Zimbabwe’s hopes started fading. As soon as Salman Agha removed Dion Myers, the stage was set for Sufiyan Muqeem to showcase his skills.
Muqeem’s Spin Destroys Zimbabwe’s Lower Order
Sufiyan Muqeem’s wristspin was absolutely lethal. The left-arm wristspinner, using a mixture of conventional spin and the wrong’un, had Zimbabwe’s lower order tied up in knots.
Ryan Burl was out LBW to a googly, and Tashinga Musekiwa fell to another wrong’un, bowled out for a golden duck. Clive Madande survived the hat-trick ball, but Muqeem returned to claim two more wickets in the next over. Zimbabwe had no answer to his brilliant spell, and they were eventually bowled out for just 57.
Muqeem’s figures of 2.4-0-3-5 set a new T20I record for Pakistan, the best ever by a Pakistani bowler in the format. His efforts helped Pakistan achieve the biggest T20I victory by balls remaining, as they knocked off Zimbabwe’s paltry total with ease.
Pakistan’s Easy Chase: Ayub and Yousuf Dominate
The chase for Pakistan was a formality, as the opening pair of Saim Ayub and Omair Yousuf made quick work of the Zimbabwean total. Ayub showed his class with elegant shots, including a beautiful late cut over the slips and a confident six over deep point off Muzarabani.
Yousuf was in fine form as well, blasting boundaries with authority. Both players remained unbeaten as they guided Pakistan home in just 8.5 overs, achieving victory with a massive 11 balls to spare. Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled to make any impact, with the highlight being Ayub’s trademark whip off the pads for a six.
As Pakistan celebrated the victory, it was clear that Zimbabwe had been thoroughly outplayed in every department.
Muqeem’s Historic T20I Record
Sufiyan Muqeem’s 5 for 3 was a landmark moment in T20I cricket, and his performance undoubtedly secured Pakistan’s place in the record books. This victory not only highlighted Muqeem’s individual brilliance but also demonstrated Pakistan’s superiority in the T20 format. His contribution was instrumental in Pakistan’s dominant series victory, ensuring the team’s unassailable position after this win.
The Big Picture: Pakistan’s Dominance in T20 Cricket
Pakistan’s victory in the T20I series against Zimbabwe further strengthens their reputation in the shortest format of the game. With talented players like Muqeem, Afridi, and Ayub rising to the occasion, Pakistan has a bright future in T20 cricket. Their performance against Zimbabwe was a statement, especially when considering the ease with which they secured the win.
Related Links for Further Reading
- Pakistan Tour of Zimbabwe 2024/25 Series Overview
- Fixtures and Results: Pakistan’s Tour of Zimbabwe
- Pakistan vs Zimbabwe: Full Scorecard of 2nd T20I
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