KARACHI: Ayesha Zafar’s record-breaking century secured a comprehensive win for Pakistan over Zimbabwe in the first T20I at the National Bank Stadium on Tuesday.
Set 238, Zimbabwe were bowled out for 84 in 18.2 overs, handing Pakistan women a 153-run victory — their biggest win in T20Is.
Pakistan bowlers piled on the pressure from the outset, never allowing Zimbabwe batters to get going. Natasha Mtomba remained the top-scorer with 24 off 20 balls, including four boundaries.
For Pakistan, Fatima Sana starred with the ball, taking three wickets in three overs while giving away just seven. Natalia Pervaiz and Sadia Iqbal also chipped in with the ball, picking up two wickets each.
Earlier, Pakistan’s decision to bat first paid dividends as they posted a record 237-run total in their 20 overs.
After losing Muneeba Ali in the second over, Gull Feroza and Ayesha Zafar had a 34-run partnership for the second wicket. Feroza made 37 off 19 deliveries, laced with eight fours.
Zimbabwe tried to make a comeback with quick wickets, however Ayesha carried on and kept the visiting team bowling attack at bay. She formed a string of partnerships that laid the foundation for a big total.
The right-hander first stitched a 67-run partnership with Aliya Riaz, who made 48 off 23 balls, striking four sixes and four boundaries. The duo’s explosive batting display propelled the scorecard to 167 in 15.3 overs.
Following Aliya’s dismissal, Ayesha was joined by skipper Fatima Sana. The pair raised an unbeaten 70-run stand off just 27 balls, helping their side to reach a commanding total.
Ayesha made 102* from 47 balls peppered with 15 fours and two sixes while Fatima struck three fours in her 21 off 13 balls.
For Zimbabwe, Nomvelo Sibanda scalped two wickets.
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