In the first of three T20Is in the series against Zimbabwe, Pakistan won the toss and decided to bat first at the National Bank Stadium in Lahore on Tuesday. Their intent was to set a high total, and apply pressure to Zimbabwe early in the game, the decision was taken.
Pakistan came into the series with a mixed record in the recent times. They have two victories in five T20Is, making them inconsistent in performances. Also, they last played South Africa away from home in an 2-1 defeat in their last series. This was therefore a ‘must-win’ match for regaining confidence against Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe began the series in poor form. The team is in 10-match losing streak in T20 internationals. This bad form adds pressure for them to play better against a strong Pakistani side.
In advance of the match, the playing XI for both teams was announced. Pakistan’s team was well-balanced with Muneeba Ali at the helm, flanked by the likes of Aliya Riaz and Natalia Pervaiz. Her skipper, Fatima Sana guided the team and backed up by a spin quartet including Tuba Hassan and Sadia Iqbal.
Zimbabwe was short of experienced players and went with a young and growing team under Nomvelo Sibanda. It was expected that players such as Kelis Ndhlovu and Michelle Mavunga would have a say in both the batting and the bowling.
The selection of Pakistan to bat first was probably driven by the pitch conditions and their belief of being able to score a competitive total. They can dominate the game by dominating the early game of the board and make Zimbabwe react. Thus, match is significant for both sides in their first T20I series.
