Pakistan Clinch Thriller Against Zimbabwe in Tri-Series Opener

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan edged Zimbabwe in a tense finish on Monday, chasing down a 148-run target with five wickets in hand in the opening clash of the Zimbabwe–Sri Lanka–Pakistan Tri Series.

Zimbabwe posted a competitive total after their top order shone early on. Brian Bennett scored 49 off 36, while Tadiwanashe Marumani added 30, guiding the visitors to 79 for 1 before Pakistan’s bowlers tightened control. Mohammad Nawaz picked up two wickets, while Saim Ayub, Abrar Ahmed, Shaheen Afridi and Salman Mirza took one each.

Zimbabwe’s captain Sikandar Raza held the innings together with an unbeaten 34 off 24, helping his side reach 139, boosted further by eight extras from Pakistan to set a 148-run target.

Pakistan’s chase wobbled in the final overs as Zimbabwe applied pressure, but the lower order held firm to complete the win, keeping the Rawalpindi crowd on its feet until the final delivery.

Earlier, Pakistan opted to field first after winning the toss in an effort to control the opening match of the series.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed that Charith Asalanka and Fernando will miss the Tri-Nation Series due to health issues and have returned home. Senior player Dasun Shanaka will lead the side for the remainder of the tournament.

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Tri-Series Schedule
18 November – Pakistan vs Zimbabwe
20 November – Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe
22 November – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
23 November – Pakistan vs Zimbabwe
25 November – Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe
27 November – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
29 November – Final