Bulawayo, Zimbabwe — Saim Ayub’s blistering maiden ODI century off just 53 balls propelled Pakistan to a resounding 10-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the second ODI at Queens Sports Club on Tuesday. The emphatic win leveled the three-match series at 1-1 after Pakistan’s shocking defeat in the rain-affected opening game.
Ayub Shines with Third-Fastest ODI Century for Pakistan
The left-handed opener dazzled with an unbeaten 113 off 62 balls, hammering 17 fours and three sixes. Pakistan reached the modest target of 145 in only 18.2 overs, with Ayub’s innings being the third-fastest ODI century in Pakistan’s cricket history, behind Shahid Afridi’s iconic knocks in 1996 and 2005.
Ayub, displaying exquisite stroke play on both sides of the wicket, reached his half-century in 32 balls with a signature pull shot for six. He brought up his century with a powerful boundary off Brandon Mavuta, who endured a tough spell, conceding 47 runs in four overs.
His opening partner, Abdullah Shafique, provided steady support with 31 runs and watched Ayub’s boundary-laden innings from the other end.
Bowling Brilliance Sets the Stage
Earlier, Pakistan’s bowlers, led by debutant leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed (4-33) and off-spinner Salman Ali Agha (3-26), dismantled Zimbabwe’s batting lineup. Opting to bat first, Zimbabwe struggled and were bundled out for 145 in 32.3 overs.
Zimbabwe’s troubles began with early dismissals, including the second consecutive run-out in the series when Tadiwanashe Marumani failed to make his ground. Abrar then struck in his second over, clean-bowling Joylord Gumbie with a sharp turner.
Dion Myers offered resistance with a brisk 33 off 30 balls, laced with six boundaries, while Sean Williams contributed 31. However, the rest of the lineup faltered against Pakistan’s spinners on a pitch favoring slow bowlers. Sikandar Raza briefly counterattacked with 17 runs, including two sixes, but couldn’t convert his start.
Salman’s disciplined spell accounted for crucial dismissals, including Myers (lbw) and Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine, who edged to Mohammad Rizwan while attempting a cut shot. Abrar wrapped up the tail swiftly, ensuring Zimbabwe lost their last five wickets for just 24 runs.
Post-Match Reactions
Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan lauded the team’s all-round effort, saying, “The bowlers set the tone brilliantly, and Saim Ayub’s innings was simply exceptional.”
On the other hand, Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine admitted his team’s shortcomings, noting, “We didn’t build meaningful partnerships or apply ourselves well. It’s time for some introspection and improvement ahead of the decider.”
What’s Next?
The decisive third ODI is scheduled for Thursday at the same venue, followed by a three-match T20I series. Pakistan’s dominant performance in the second ODI has set the stage for an exciting finale, as both teams look to clinch the series.
Match Summary
Zimbabwe: 145 all out in 32.3 overs (Dion Myers 33; Abrar Ahmed 4-33, Salman Ali Agha 3-26)
Pakistan: 148/0 in 18.2 overs (Saim Ayub 113, Abdullah Shafique 31)
Result: Pakistan won by 10 wickets
Series: Tied 1-1, with the final match to be played on Thursday
