Kamran Ghulam's Maiden ODI Century Powers Pakistan To 303/6 In Series Decider Against Zimbabwe

In a decisive ODI match against Zimbabwe in Harare, Pakistan showcased a comprehensive batting performance, amassing 303/6. Kamran Ghulam emerged as the standout performer with his first ODI century, forming the core of Pakistan's innings.

Choosing to bat initially, Pakistan had a steady start. Saim Ayub and Abdullah Shafique built a 58-run opening stand. Ayub displayed some aggression but was dismissed by Faraz Akram while attempting a big hit.

Abdullah Shafique played a mature innings, scoring a composed half-century before being trapped LBW by Sikandar Raza. His 50 off 68 balls included five boundaries and a six, setting a solid foundation at 113/2 for Pakistan.

Kamran Ghulam then took charge alongside captain Mohammad Rizwan. Ghulam's shot selection was impressive, combining drives and cuts effectively. He reached his maiden ODI fifty with a pull shot off 60 balls. Rizwan added stability with 37 runs, partnering for 79 runs with Ghulam before falling to Raza.

As wickets fell around him, Ghulam accelerated the innings later on. His century came off 97 balls, featuring 12 boundaries and one six, highlighting his skill and composure. His innings ended at 103 when he was caught at sweeper cover off Richard Ngarava's slower ball.

The middle-order ensured Pakistan finished strongly. Salman Agha scored an attacking 30, including a towering six over long-on. Tayyab Tahir contributed an unbeaten 29 off just 14 balls, hitting several boundaries in the final overs against Ngarava's inconsistent death bowling.

Zimbabwe's Bowling Struggles

Aamer Jamal added five crucial runs in the last over as Pakistan scored 14 runs from the final six balls. For Zimbabwe, Blessing Muzarabani (2/56) and Richard Ngarava (2/65) were effective but struggled with consistency in the death overs.

Faraz Akram (1/44) and Sikandar Raza (1/53) delivered economical spells but couldn't contain Pakistan's late surge. Facing a target of 304, Zimbabwe will need an exceptional batting effort to win the series.