Zim pip Pak in T20 thriller
Zimbabwe grabbed a consolation two-wicket victory over Pakistan in a thrilling final Twenty20 international on Thursday, with tailender Richard Ngarava getting them over the line with one ball to spare.
Pakistan, seeking a series sweep after winning the first two matches by 57 runs and 10 wickets respectively, rested several key players and made 132-7 off 20 overs in Bulawayo.
Zimbabwe responded strongly initially with opener Brian Bennett scoring 43, but the Pakistan bowlers hit back and the loss of home captain Sikandar Raza (19) spelt trouble.
Needing 12 runs from the last over for victory, Tinotenda Maposa struck a four, a six and a single to level the scores with three balls remaining.
Tashinga Musekiwa was caught by Tayyab Tahir off the bowling of Jahandad Khan to increase the tension at the Queens Sports Club.
Ngarava then became the hero, striking the penultimate ball back towards Khan. It hit the stumps at the non-striker's end and deflected to mid-off for the winning run as Zimbabwe reached 133-8.
Top scorer Bennett said: "We have got Afghanistan from next week in all formats so it is nice to win and establish some momentum."
Pakistan skipper Salman Agha reserved special praise for batter Saim Ayub and wrist spinner Sufiyan Muqeem after the two white-ball series victories.
"I think Saim and Sufiyan have long futures ahead and will serve Pakistan for many years. Saim has been playing all three formats and doing really well. Sufiyan too."
Bennett hit a six and six fours in his knock as he took Zimbabwe to 73-2 before wickets started to fall regularly.
Agha was the leading Pakistan scorer with a 32 that included three fours while Blessing Muzarabani took two wickets for Zimbabwe.
Pakistan, who also beat Zimbabwe 2-1 in a one-day international series, now head to South Africa for an eight-match all-formats tour that starts on December 10 with a Twenty20 international.
Naqvi reviews National Bank Cricket upgrades
The transformation of the National Bank Cricket arena in Karachi is well underway, following the successful upgrade of Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium.
The upgradation project is in its final stages, with finishing work on the modern steel-structured building progressing rapidly at the far end.
Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Mohsin Naqvi, conducted a comprehensive visit to the NBS, Karachi, inspecting all four floors of the newly constructed building. During his visit, Chairman assessed the progress of the upgradation project and directed the team to maintain top-quality standards alongside the swift pace of work.
Chairman PCB emphasised the importance of creating state-of-the-art enclosures within the new building to enhance the spectator experience. He also announced the installation of new LED lights on the poles, enabling fans to enjoy an exclusive laser light show during the matches.
To further enhance the convenience of cricket enthusiasts, Chairman instructed that parking facilities be relocated closer to the stadium. Additionally, both scoreboard screens will now be mounted at higher elevations to ensure uninterrupted viewing for spectators.
Mr. Naqvi also suggested the construction of a trench between the ground and seating areas to ensure better security and separation. He reiterated the commitment to completing the upgradation project well before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan in February and March.
"The preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy are in full swing, and we are determined to provide local and international fans with a world-class experience at the National Bank Cricket Arena," said Mr. Naqvi.
The Chairman also met with officials from the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO), who are overseeing the project. He directed them to expedite the work and maintain high standards. The FWO team briefed him on the progress and shared updates on various aspects of the project.
Director of Infrastructure PCB, Manager of National Bank Cricket Arena, and senior FWO officials accompanied the Chairman during the visit. The PCB remains committed to providing state-of-the-art facilities for players and fans alike, ensuring a memorable cricketing experience for all.