Pakistan Clinch ODI Series 2-1 with Dominant Win Over Zimbabwe
Pakistan secured a 99-run victory over Zimbabwe in the third and final ODI in Bulawayo on Thursday, November 28, sealing the series 2-1. Kamran Ghulam’s stunning maiden century played a pivotal role in setting up Pakistan’s commanding total of 303/6, which Zimbabwe failed to chase down, despite solid starts from their batters.
After opting to bat, Pakistan’s openers, Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique, provided a steady foundation with a 58-run partnership. Though Ayub was dismissed for 31, Shafique went on to score a half-century, and Ghulam continued the momentum. Their 50-run partnership helped Pakistan stay on track, with Ghulam holding firm despite Zimbabwe’s efforts to break through.
Ghulam eventually brought up his maiden ODI ton, and although he fell soon after, key contributions from captain Mohammad Rizwan and deputy Salman Agha pushed the score to 303/6. Agha and Tayyab Tahir added valuable runs in the latter stages to give Pakistan a competitive total.
Zimbabwe’s response faltered as Pakistan’s bowlers dominated. Despite contributions from captain Craig Ervine (52), the hosts struggled with regular wickets falling. Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Aamer Jamal, and Ayub, each claiming key wickets, bowled Zimbabwe out for just 204.
The win marks Pakistan’s second consecutive away ODI series victory after their triumph against Australia, putting them in strong form ahead of next year’s Champions Trophy. The focus now shifts to the upcoming T20I series, set to begin on Sunday, December 1.
