KARACHI: Zimbabwe Women have been set a modest yet competitive target of 223 runs to avoid a series whitewash against Pakistan in the third and final ODI at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on Saturday. After being asked to bat first, the visitors managed to post 222 for 9 in their allotted 50 overs.
Zimbabwe have been restricted to 222-9 in their 50 overs
Pakistan’s chase will begin shortly 🏏#PAKWvZIMW | #BackOurGirls pic.twitter.com/4rcGez7pVd
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) May 9, 2026
The innings witnessed two key half-centuries from middle-order batter Beloved Biza (73 off 88 balls, 12 fours) and opener Kelis Ndhlovu (51 off 72 balls, 8 fours). The pair steadied Zimbabwe’s innings after early setbacks, adding a crucial 87-run stand for the third wicket.
However, Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack, led by fast bowler Tasmia Rubab (3 for 49), kept the scoring in check. Rubab struck thrice, removing openers Kelly Ndiraya (8) and Vimbai Mutungwindu (2) before returning to dismiss the well-set Biza in the 33rd over.
Spirit of Cricket 🇵🇰🇿🇼🤝#PAKWvZIMW | #BackOurGirls pic.twitter.com/C4oNe8QfZl
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) May 9, 2026
Left-arm spinner Syeda Aroob Shah claimed two wickets, while pacer Ayesha Zafar impressed with figures of 2 for 13 from her six overs, including two maidens. Momina Riasat also picked up a wicket, and a run-out accounted for Lindokuhle Mabhero (8).
Captain Nomvelo Sibanda remained unbeaten on 35 off 55 balls, adding valuable lower-order runs alongside Olinder Chare (4*), who saw Zimbabwe past the 220-mark.
Earlier, Zimbabwe lost early wickets inside the first four overs, Ndiraya caught behind off Rubab, followed by Mutungwindu falling to the same bowler.
Ndhlovu and Biza rebuilt patiently before Aroob Shah trapped Ndhlovu lbw for 51. A flurry of wickets in the middle overs, including Adel Zimunu (23) and Christine Mutasa (2), prevented Zimbabwe from accelerating.
With Pakistan having already taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, the hosts will now chase 223 runs to complete a clean sweep. The second innings is set to begin shortly under lights at the National Bank Stadium.
