ZIM vs PAK 1st ODI: Zimbabwe beat Mohammad Rizwan led-Pakistan by 80 runs in a rain-affected match, climb 1-0 lead in the series

New Delhi: In a remarkable turn of events, Zimbabwe triumphed in the opening match of their three-match ODI series against Pakistan, securing an 80-run win through the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method at Queens Sports Club on Sunday.

After being asked to bat, the Zimbabwean team faced a challenging situation, struggling at 125/7 midway through their innings.

However, a determined partnership between Pakistan-born Sikandar Raza, who made a vital 39, and left-handed tailender Richard Ngarava, who added a crucial 48, shifted the momentum. The pair put together a key 62-run stand for the eighth wicket, guiding Zimbabwe to a respectable total of 205.

Debutant left-arm wrist spinner Faisal Akram claimed 3-24, while off-spinner Salman Agha finished with 3-42.

Zimbabwe’s quick bowler Blessing Muzarabani dismissed Pakistan’s openers cheaply, and the wickets kept falling in a dismal batting performance as Pakistan collapsed to 60-6 after 21 overs, before heavy rain interrupted play.

The two teams will face off again in Bulawayo on Tuesday and Thursday.