Saim Ayub's century powers Pakistan to victory over Zimbabwe in second ODI

A brilliant all-round performance led by Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub propelled Pakistan to a commanding 10-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the second ODI of the three-match series. Pakistan chased down a modest target of 146 with ease, reaching the target in just 18.2 overs, and with 190 balls to spare.

Set a relatively small target, Pakistan had no trouble in the chase, thanks to a sensational knock by Saim Ayub. The left-handed batter played an explosive innings, scoring his maiden ODI century in just 53 balls, making it the third-fastest by a Pakistan batter in men's ODIs, only behind the legendary Shahid Afridi.

The left-hand batter top-scored for Pakistan, smashing an unbeaten 113 off just 62 balls, which included 17 boundaries and three sixes. His blistering century set the tone for the chase, and Abdullah Shafique supported him well, remaining not out on 32 as Pakistan cruised to victory without losing a wicket.

Earlier, Zimbabwe's batting line-up faltered under pressure after being put in to bat. The home team struggled from the outset, with their openers Tadiwanashe Marumani (4) and Joylord Gumbie (5) both dismissed early. Top-order batsman Dion Myers and captain Craig Ervine briefly steadied the ship, putting on 38 runs for the third wicket, but their resistance was short-lived. Myers, the top scorer for Zimbabwe with 33 runs off 30 balls, was dismissed by Salman Ali Agha in the 13th over.

Agha then triggered a collapse in the middle order, removing both Ervine and Sikandar Raza in quick succession to leave Zimbabwe reeling at 97/5 in the 20th over. Despite a gritty 31-run contribution from all-rounder Sean Williams, Zimbabwe's innings continued to crumble. After Williams was dismissed in the 26th over, the hosts could only manage an additional 24 runs for the loss of their final five wickets, ending their innings at 145 all out in 32.2 overs.

Pakistan's bowling attack was led by Abrar Ahmed, who claimed 4 wickets, while Agha took 3 scalps. Faisal Akram and Saim Ayub also contributed with one wicket each, ensuring a dominant performance in the field.

This commanding 10-wicket victory has leveled the series 1-1, setting the stage for an exciting decider on November 28 at Queens Sports Club.

Pakistan playing XI: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan (c/wk), Salman Ali Agha (vc), Tayyab Tahir, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Aamir Jamal, Haris Rauf, Faisal Akram, Abrar Ahmed.

Zimbabwe Playing XI: Joylord Gumbie, Tadiwanashe Marumani(w), Dion Myers, Craig Ervine(c), Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Brian Bennett, Brandon Mavuta, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu