Debutant Tinotenda Maposa shines in last-over thriller for Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe pulled off a dramatic two-wicket win over Pakistan, chasing 133 in the final T20I to salvage pride in a 2-1 series loss. After disappointing their fans on Tuesday, Zimbabwe redeemed themselves with a nerve-wracking victory sealed on the penultimate delivery. A crucial single by Richard Ngarava ensured a memorable win in front of a raucous Bulawayo crowd.

Pakistan’s insipid batting performance set Zimbabwe a target of 133. Despite a blazing start by Brian Bennett (43) and Tadiwanashe Marumani, who raced to 50 in just five overs, Zimbabwe’s fragile middle order stumbled. At 73 for 1, they seemed in control, but Sufiyan Muqeem’s crafty spin (4-1-19-1) triggered a collapse to 94 for 5. With the required rate climbing to 12, Pakistan sensed victory when Sikandar Raza fell to Jahandad Khan.

Enter debutant Tinotenda Maposa, who turned the tide in the final over. Facing a daunting 12 runs to win, the 21-year-old smashed a boundary and a huge six, bringing Zimbabwe within touching distance. Although Tashinga Musekiwa’s dismissal added tension, Ngarava’s composure under pressure clinched the match.

Earlier, Zimbabwe’s bowlers impressed, with Blessing Muzarabani (2-25) and Wellington Masakadza dominating Pakistan’s top order. Spin, led by Raza and Ryan Burl, stifled the middle overs as Salman Agha’s 32 anchored Pakistan’s innings. Late cameos from Arafat Minhas and Abbas Afridi pushed the visitors to 132, aided by a loose final over from Muzarabani.

Bennett and Marumani gave Zimbabwe a flying start, attacking Mohammad Hasnain and Jahandad Khan. However, Muqeem’s spell brought Pakistan back into the game, nearly derailing Zimbabwe’s chase. Despite this, Maposa’s heroics ensured a thrilling conclusion, giving the Bulawayo crowd a reason to celebrate.