KARACHI: Ayesha Zafar struck a record-breaking century while captain Fatima Sana delivered a clinical bowling performance as Pakistan defeated Zimbabwe by 153 runs in the opening match of the women’s T20I series at National Bank Stadium on Tuesday.
Pakistan posted 237-5, their highest total in women’s T20 internationals, before bowling Zimbabwe out for 84 in 18.2 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Ayesha Zafar remained unbeaten on 102 off 47 balls, hitting 15 fours and two sixes in her maiden T20I century. The opener dominated Zimbabwe’s bowling attack with a strike rate above 217.
She was supported by Aliya Riaz, who scored 48 from 23 deliveries, including four boundaries and four sixes. Gull Feroza also contributed a quick 37 off 19 balls to provide Pakistan with an aggressive start.
Pakistan scored 68 runs inside the first six overs despite losing early wickets. Ayesha later accelerated the innings with a key partnership alongside Aliya Riaz before captain Fatima Sana added an unbeaten 21 runs late in the innings.
Fatima Sana leads Pakistan bowling attack
Zimbabwe struggled during the run chase after Fatima Sana removed key batters early in the innings. The captain finished with figures of 3-7 in three overs as Zimbabwe collapsed to 16-5 within the opening five overs.
Sadia Iqbal and Natalia Pervaiz claimed two wickets each, while Rameen Shamim added one wicket.
Natasha Mtomba scored 24 runs and Adel Zimunu added 18, but Zimbabwe failed to recover after the early collapse.
Pakistan now lead the three-match women’s T20I series 1-0 ahead of the second match in Karachi.
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