Saim Ayub’s Maiden Century Propels Pakistan to Emphatic Win Over Zimbabwe

Saim Ayub hit a sensational maiden century as Pakistan secured a dominant 10-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the second ODI at Queens Sports Club on Tuesday.

Chasing a modest target of 146, Pakistan reached the finish line effortlessly, scoring 147 without losing a wicket and with 190 balls to spare.

The star of the show, Saim Ayub, smashed an unbeaten 113 off just 62 balls, studded with 17 fours and three sixes. His knock marked the third-fastest ODI century by a Pakistani batter, trailing only Shahid Afridi, who holds the top two records. Ayub was ably supported by Abdullah Shafique, who contributed an unbeaten 32 in the chase.

Earlier, Zimbabwe elected to bat first after winning the toss, but their decision proved costly as Pakistan’s bowlers ran riot. Abrar Ahmed, making his ODI debut, shone with a four-wicket haul, while vice-captain Salman Agha took three wickets. The hosts were skittled out for a paltry 145 in just under 33 overs.

Tayyab Tahir also made his ODI debut for Pakistan in this match but did not get an opportunity to bat due to the one-sided nature of the contest.

The victory underscores Pakistan’s dominance in the series, with their bowlers and top order firing on all cylinders. The third and final ODI promises to be another opportunity for the Greenshirts to assert their authority against the struggling Zimbabwean side.