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The series finale between Zimbabwe and Pakistan is set to be a thrilling decider after both teams secured commanding wins in the first two ODIs. Pakistan’s spinners, spearheaded by debutant Abrar Ahmed, have proven decisive, while opener Saim Ayub’s explosive century in the second ODI has added firepower to their batting lineup.
Zimbabwe, however, is not out of the fight. Led by experienced campaigners like Sikandar Raza and Sean Williams, they will aim to regroup and exploit home conditions at the Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. The stage is set for an exciting clash as both sides vie for supremacy.
Match Details
- Match: Zimbabwe vs Pakistan, 3rd ODI
- Date: November 28, 2024
- Venue: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
- Time: 1:00 PM Local Time
Team Previews
Zimbabwe Preview
Zimbabwe enters the decider with the series on the line. After an all-round performance in the first ODI, their weaknesses were exposed in the second as Pakistan’s bowlers and batters outclassed them. Senior players like Sikandar Raza and Sean Williams need to step up, particularly against Pakistan’s spinners, who have dominated so far.
The team will rely on their middle-order stability, with captain Craig Ervine and Raza anchoring the innings. In the bowling department, Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava are key, but they must provide breakthroughs early to challenge Pakistan’s top-order.
- Key Players to Watch:
- Sikandar Raza: A dependable all-rounder, he was the star in the first ODI.
- Sean Williams: Zimbabwe’s highest ODI run-scorer against Pakistan.
- Blessing Muzarabani: A consistent performer with the ball in the series.
Predicted XI:
Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Joylord Gumbie, Dion Myers, Craig Ervine (c), Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Brian Bennett, Brandon Mavuta, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu
Pakistan Preview
Pakistan comes into the game high on confidence after a dominant all-round performance in the second ODI. Opener Saim Ayub’s blistering century set the tone, and Abrar Ahmed’s dream debut with the ball solidified their position.
Skipper Mohammad Rizwan continues to lead from the front, with solid support from Abdullah Shafique and Agha Salman. With a deep bowling lineup, including Haris Rauf and the in-form Abrar Ahmed, Pakistan will look to replicate their winning formula.
- Key Players to Watch:
- Saim Ayub: His record-breaking century has made him the player to watch.
- Abrar Ahmed: A four-wicket haul in his debut ODI showcased his potential.
- Mohammad Rizwan: A consistent run-scorer in the middle order.
Predicted XI:
Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Agha Salman, Tayyab Tahir, Irfan Khan, Aamer Jamal, Haris Rauf, Faisal Akram, Abrar Ahmed
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo offers a balanced pitch, ideal for batting early in the game. However, as the game progresses, spinners could come into play due to wear and tear. The average first-innings score here is 233, but teams chasing have historically fared better, winning 50 of the 94 ODIs played at this venue.
Weather Forecast
Cloudy skies with temperatures ranging between 19°C and 31°C are expected. There is a slight chance of rain in the afternoon, which could delay proceedings.
Toss Prediction
Teams are likely to bowl first, given the success rate of chasing teams at this venue.
Key Battles to Watch
- Sikandar Raza vs Abrar Ahmed: A battle of experience against emerging talent in spin-friendly conditions.
- Saim Ayub vs Blessing Muzarabani: Can Zimbabwe’s pacer halt Ayub’s red-hot form?
- Sean Williams vs Haris Rauf: Williams will aim to counter Pakistan’s pace spearhead in the middle overs.
Winning Prediction
Pakistan has the momentum and depth in both batting and bowling, with Saim Ayub and Abrar Ahmed emerging as standout performers. Zimbabwe, however, has shown they can punch above their weight, especially at home. While the contest promises to be intense, Pakistan’s superior form and record against Zimbabwe make them the favorites.
Prediction: Pakistan to win
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