Former Pakistan captain Inzamamul Haq has criticised the performance of the Men in Green’s middle-order batting after another disappointing performance during the first T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare.

Pakistan posted 149 for seven in their 20 overs during Wednesday’s encounter.

After being sent in to bat, the Pakistan innings was dominated by wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan, who’s unbeaten 82 came from 61 balls. No-one else scored more than 15 but Pakistan were still able to clinch victory by 11 runs.

“The weak link in this Pakistan side is its middle-order, which needs a lot of improvement. It looks as if the tailenders start coming after the number three position,” said Inzamam on his official YouTube channel.

“The good thing at the moment is that Pakistan’s top-order is doing really well or else winning matches, with this weak middle-order, would have been very difficult. The players need to realise their responsibility and quickly learn from their mistakes. Right now, Pakistan team is winning but if they don’t the pressure on the players will increase significantly. Team management also has experienced players who need to focus on this area,” he added.

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The home side, who have not qualified for the T20 World Cup in India later this year, were always just behind the rate and could only manage 138 for seven in reply.

The second match in the three-game series will be played at the same venue on Friday. The limited overs fixtures will be followed by two Tests.