Shamas and bowlers set up Pakistan’s dominant win against Zimbabwe Women
By Nawaz Gohar ; Pakistan Women asserted their complete authority in the opening ODI of the three-match series at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi, dismantling Zimbabwe Women by a massive 168-run margin to claim an early 1-0 lead. On a pitch that rewarded disciplined stroke-play, the hosts produced a commanding all-round performance that never allowed the tourists a foothold in the contest.
Opting to bat first, Pakistan’s batting unit fired on all cylinders, posting a formidable 330-5. The foundation was laid by a composed partnership between Gull Feroza, who hit a solid 50 off 60 balls, and Sadaf Shamas, who anchored the innings with a brilliant 98 off 130 balls.
Though Shamas agonizingly fell two runs short of a century, her consistency set the stage for a late-order onslaught. Sidra Amin maintained the momentum with a blistering 67 off just 59 deliveries, before wicketkeeper-
batter Najiha Alvi provided the final flourish. Alvi’s unbeaten 56 off 30 balls—packed with eight boundaries and a six—propelled Pakistan past the 300-run mark, leaving Zimbabwe with a mountainous target. Precious Marange was the only bright spot for the visitors, claiming 3-39.
Facing a required run rate of over six, the Zimbabwean chase quickly unraveled. The visitors struggled to find rhythm against a disciplined Pakistani bowling attack, losing wickets at regular intervals. Despite a valiant, fighting 53 from Beloved Biza, the middle order failed to offer resistance. Kelis Ndhlovu provided a brief spark with 31, but the scoreboard pressure proved insurmountable.
The Pakistani bowlers were clinical, sharing the wickets with impressive synergy. Tasmia Rubab led the charge with a precise 2-21, while captain Fatima Sana and Syeda Aroob Shah mirrored her impact, each finishing with 2-28 and 2-38 respectively. The visitors were eventually bundled out for 162 in 36.4 overs, succumbing to the pressure of the steep chase.
This comprehensive win highlights the depth and tactical growth within the Pakistan squad. Having set the tone for the series with this emphatic result, the hosts will look to maintain this momentum when the two sides meet for the second ODI. For Zimbabwe, it is back to the drawing board to address their fragility against high-quality spin and pace.
