3rd ODI, Bulawayo, November 28, 2024, 01:00 PM
Zimbabwe
Pakistan
ZIM 40%
Tie %
PAK 60%
With the Champions Trophy 2025 on the horizon, teams are gearing up for ODI cricket’s ultimate stage. Here, the spotlight falls on the final showdown between Zimbabwe and Pakistan, with the series tied 1-1. Stakes couldn’t be higher as both teams fight for pride and momentum in this thrilling decider. Pakistan, the probable hosts of the Champions Trophy, arrive on the back of a morale-boosting 2-1 series win against Australia. But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing here. A rain-hit opening game saw them stumble to a disappointing defeat. However, the Men in Green roared back in style with a stunning 10-wicket victory in the second match. Saim Ayub’s scintillating century in that chase has infused fresh confidence into the side, especially after their batting collapse in the opener. With Babar Azam rested, skipper Mohammad Rizwan shoulders the responsibility of guiding the young guns. Abdullah Shafique, Tayyab Tahir, and Kamran Ghulam have shown promise, but it’s time to translate potential into performance. All-rounder Aamer Jamal remains a key player, contributing with both bat and ball, while spinners Abrar Ahmed and Salman Agha have emerged as game-changers in this series. Can Haris Rauf and the bowling unit deliver the knockout punch? Zimbabwe, on the other hand, have had a mixed campaign. After a resounding win in the first ODI, they were blown away in the second. Their batting remains a concern, overly reliant on Sean Williams, Craig Ervine, and the ever-reliable Sikandar Raza. The top order, featuring Dion Myers, Joylord Gumbie, and Tadiwanashe Marumani, must step up if they are to challenge Pakistan’s bowlers. Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava form a potent pace duo capable of rattling even the best. Brian Bennett’s quick-fire cameos could prove decisive, but the X-factor remains Raza. Zimbabwe's fortunes often mirror his performances, and they’ll need his magic to upset the odds. It all boils down to this. Can Zimbabwe script a fairytale ending? Or will Pakistan assert their dominance to seal the series? A high-stakes thriller awaits - brace yourself for an unforgettable finale!