After six long years, international cricket finally came back to Pakistan. After some pre tour anxieties, Zimbabwe finally arrived. They received a VIP welcome, as cricketing statesmen.
This tour is much more than just sports, it is a lifeline for Pakistani cricket and the entire nation. A safe, secure tour will surely encourage other foreign teams to attend. It has given all of Pakistan a much needed elevation, amongst all the negativity.
The 1st Twenty20 match started at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, in front of a packed, excited crowd.
Pakistan’s selection included some returning faces, youngsters and a few veterans.
The final line up was; Captain Shahid Afridi, Sarfraz Ahmed, Ahmed Shehzad, Anwar Ali, Bilawal Bhatti, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Sami, Mukhtar Ahmed, Shoaib Malik, Umar Akmal, Wahab Riaz.
Zimbabwe won the toss and elected to bat. They posted an impressive total of 172/6, with Chigumbura getting 54 runs off 35 balls.
Mohammad Sami led the way taking 3/36. Anwar Ali and Shoaib Malik were economical. Wahab Riaz contributed with 2 wickets.
In return Pakistan got off to a flyer with an opening stand of 142 from 13 overs. Ahmed Shehzad returned to form with a much needed 55 runs. However the outstanding innings of the day came from 22 year old newcomer Mukhtar Ahmed, who hit a blistering 83 from 45 balls. (12 fours and 3 sixes).
The usual batting collapse occurred with 5 wickets falling for 31, but Pakistan continued to stay in control, clinching the match by 5 wickets.
Whatever the result, it was irrelevant. Pakistan salutes the courage shown by the Zimbabwean Board and players for bringing cricket back home to our nation. Thank you!
Man of the Match was awarded to Mukhtar Ahmed.
Next match: 2nd Twenty20 game, 7pm Sunday 24th May. Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
