Pakistan clinched a resounding 10-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the second T20I in Bulawayo, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. Zimbabwe was bowled out for their lowest-ever T20I total of just 57 runs, with young spinner Sufiyan Muqeem delivering a sensational performance that etched his name in cricket history.
Muqeem was the undisputed star of the match, taking five wickets for just three runs in 2.4 overs. His spell, marked by skillful use of googlies and top spin, dismantled Zimbabwe’s middle and lower order. The 20-year-old’s figures of 5/3 not only earned him the Player of the Match award but also broke the record for the best bowling figures by a Pakistani in T20Is, previously held by Umar Gul (5/6 against New Zealand in 2009).
Zimbabwe’s innings began with promise, as openers Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani built a 37-run partnership. However, Pakistan’s pacers Haris Rauf and Abbas Afridi struck in quick succession, dismissing both openers and exposing the fragile middle order. Muqeem then took charge, running through the lineup as nine Zimbabwean batsmen failed to reach double digits. Supporting spinners Salman Agha and Abrar Ahmed contributed to the collapse, leaving the hosts reeling at 57 all out.
Chasing the modest target, Pakistan’s openers Saim Ayub and Omair Yousuf made short work of the total. Ayub dazzled with a series of elegant boundaries, including a confident start against Zimbabwe’s skipper Sikandar Raza in the first over. Omair Yousuf added flair with a towering six, and the pair sealed the victory inside the powerplay, showcasing Pakistan’s dominance in all departments.
Post-Match Reactions
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza acknowledged the disappointment of the team’s historic low but urged his players to regroup ahead of the final match. “We are all hurting, and we are in a bad place, but we have 36 hours to come back stronger,” Raza said. He emphasized the importance of adapting to conditions and taking lessons from recurring mistakes.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s stand-in captain Salman Ali Agha lauded his team’s performance, particularly the young spinner. “The way Sufiyan and Abrar bowled today was outstanding. The whole team is very happy,” Salman stated, expressing satisfaction with Pakistan’s adaptability and resilience.
With the series already won, Pakistan will aim for a clean sweep in the final T20I on Thursday.