Pakistan Won Against Zimbabwe in T20 Match Thrilling Chase
Pakistan won against Zimbabwe in a nail-biting T20I Tri-Series opener at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on November 18, 2025. Chasing a target of 148, Pakistan recovered from early setbacks to complete a thrilling five-wicket victory with just four balls remaining, showcasing composure and resilience in a tense finish.
Zimbabwe Sets a Competitive Target
Zimbabwe, batting first after losing the toss, made a strong start. Openers Brian Bennett (49 off 38) and Tadiwanashe Marumani combined for a 72-run partnership, hitting boundaries against Pakistan’s pace spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi. However, a middle-order collapse, triggered by Abrar Ahmed’s 3/28 leg-spin, restricted Zimbabwe to 147/8, despite late efforts from captain Sikandar Raza, who remained unbeaten on 34.
Pakistan’s Early Struggles in the Chase
Pakistan’s innings began on a shaky note. Captain Babar Azam was dismissed for a duck, leaving the team at 20/3. Fakhar Zaman’s attacking 44 off 32 provided some stability, but the required run rate kept pressure on Pakistan’s middle order. The match demanded calm decision-making and timely partnerships to stay in contention.
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Usman Khan and Mohammad Nawaz Lead the Comeback
The game turned dramatically in the final five overs. Usman Khan’s unbeaten 37 off 28 and Mohammad Nawaz 21 off 12* forged a 51-run partnership that sealed the win. Nawaz also played a key role with the ball earlier, earning player-of-the-match honors. Their performance silenced early doubts and demonstrated Pakistan’s ability to handle pressure situations effectively.
Impact on the Tri-Series
This win provides a significant confidence boost for Pakistan as they prepare for upcoming matches against Sri Lanka. Zimbabwe, while showing resilience, will reflect on missed chances, particularly the middle-order collapse that cost them momentum. The match highlighted the unpredictability of T20 cricket, where small partnerships and clutch performances can turn the tide.
Historical Context of Pakistan’s T20 Cricket
Pakistan has a rich history of thrilling T20 encounters, often excelling in run-chases on home pitches. The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has frequently witnessed close finishes, and this match continues that tradition. Pakistan’s ability to recover from early wickets emphasizes the strength and depth of their middle order, a hallmark of successful T20 sides in recent years.
Conclusion
Pakistan won against Zimbabwe in a match that tested nerves, strategy, and execution. Late heroics from Usman Khan and Mohammad Nawaz ensured a dramatic finish, giving Pakistan fans reason to celebrate. This victory reinforces Pakistan’s reputation for resilience in T20 cricket and sets a positive tone for the rest of the Tri-Series.
Full match scorecard: ESPN Cricinfo Pakistan vs Zimbabwe
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