Zimbabwe A produced a stunning fightback at the Harare Sports Club yesterday to register a three-wicket win over Pakistan A and end the unofficial five-match ODI series, which they had already lost, on a high.
Electing to bat first, Pakistan A posted 274-6 courtesy middle-order batsman Saad Ali’s unbeaten 86-run knock.
Pakistan A were off to a shaky start, losing the first wicket of Fakhar Zaman on the third ball. Zain Abbas and Umar Amin then recorded a 52-run stand to give Pakistan A some stability before losing the former in the 14th over.
Amin (22) was the next to walk back to the pavilion as Zimbabwe A sought to derail the visitors.
However, skipper Sohaib Maqsood stepped in and recorded a crucial 65-run partnership with Saad to take his side to 131-4 before being dismissed in the 29th over.
Saad then anchored his side to ensure Pakistan A register a strong total of 274.
Raza was the pick of the bowlers for Zimbabwe A, dismissing three batsmen.
In reply, Zimbabwe A, buoyed by 86-run knocks apiece by Regis Chakabva and Malcolm Walker reached the target with just a ball to spare.
Opener Brian Chari had given his side a great start, scoring 41 off 52 balls but then Pakistan A began to take control as Zimbabwe A lost wickets in quick succession. However, Chakabva and Walker held firm to get their team close to the target and in the end, Madziva scored two boundaries in the last over as Zimbabwe A made 277-7.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 6th, 2016.
