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The cricketing action heats up as Pakistan faces Zimbabwe in the 1st ODI at the iconic Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, on November 24, 2024. Pakistan, buoyed by a recent ODI series victory in Australia, will aim to dominate the hosts, while Zimbabwe hopes to exploit home conditions to pull off a surprise. Here’s everything you need to know about the match, including pitch insights, team analysis, and FAQs.
Queens Sports Club Pitch Report for PAK vs ZIM Cricket
The Queens Sports Club pitch is known for its balanced nature, ensuring an exciting contest between bat and ball. Here’s a breakdown:
- Pacers’ Paradise Early On: The new ball tends to swing, offering early wickets for fast bowlers.
- Spin Advantage: Spinners will thrive in the middle overs as the pitch slows down, requiring disciplined bowling.
- Batting-Friendly Surface: As the game progresses, the pitch eases out, favoring batters, especially in the second innings.
Weather Update: With a 40% chance of rain in the afternoon, chasing might be a preferable strategy. Teams will look to take advantage of DLS scenarios if needed.
Queens Sports Club Stats for PAK vs ZIM Cricket
- Matches Played: 92
- Matches Won Batting First: 38
- Matches Won Bowling First: 49
- Average First Innings Score: 234
- Highest Team Total: 399/1 by Pakistan
- Lowest Team Total: 48/10 by Zimbabwe Women
- Highest Successful Chase: 329/9 by Zimbabwe
The stats suggest that teams bowling first have a slight edge, emphasizing the importance of toss decisions.
PAK vs ZIM Cricket: Head-to-Head Record
Pakistan and Zimbabwe have faced each other in 62 ODIs, and the results heavily favor Pakistan:
- Pakistan Wins: 54
- Zimbabwe Wins: 5
- Tied Matches: 1
- No Results: 2
In Zimbabwe:
Out of the matches played in Zimbabwe, Pakistan has won 21, while the hosts have managed 3 victories.
Team Analysis for PAK vs ZIM Cricket
Pakistan
Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan boasts a strong lineup with a balance of experience and youthful energy. Key players include:
- Haris Rauf: A fast bowler capable of exploiting the early swing.
- Saim Ayub: A rising star with the ability to play anchor and finish roles.
- Salman Ali Agha: An all-rounder who provides depth in both batting and bowling.
Zimbabwe
Under Craig Ervine, Zimbabwe will rely on experienced players and emerging talents. Key players to watch are:
- Sikandar Raza: A proven match-winner with both bat and ball.
- Sean Williams: One of Zimbabwe’s most consistent ODI performers.
- Blessing Muzarabani: A pacer who can make early breakthroughs.
Predictions for PAK vs ZIM Cricket
With a superior head-to-head record and strong recent form, Pakistan starts as favorites. However, Zimbabwe’s familiarity with the conditions could make it a closer contest than expected. A score of 250+ might be needed to stay competitive on this surface.
PAK vs ZIM Cricket: FAQs
1. What is the head-to-head record between Pakistan and Zimbabwe in ODIs?
Pakistan has dominated Zimbabwe in ODIs, winning 54 out of 62 matches, while Zimbabwe has managed just 5 wins.
2. How does the Queens Sports Club pitch behave?
The Queens Sports Club pitch offers early assistance for pacers and later becomes spinner-friendly. Batters find it easier to score in the second innings.
3. What is Pakistan’s highest ODI total against Zimbabwe?
Pakistan’s highest ODI total against Zimbabwe is 399/1, achieved at the Queens Sports Club.
4. Who are the key players to watch in the PAK vs ZIM cricket match?
- Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe): All-round abilities make him a game-changer.
- Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan): As captain, his performance will be pivotal.
- Haris Rauf (Pakistan): A lethal pacer capable of taking early wickets.
- Sean Williams (Zimbabwe): Zimbabwe’s most reliable batter.
5. What is the average first innings score at Queens Sports Club?
The average first innings score is 234 runs, making anything above 250 a competitive total.
6. Where can I get live updates for PAK vs ZIM cricket matches?
Live updates, match analysis, and scores for PAK vs ZIM cricket matches are available on Tamasha.
Conclusion
The first ODI between Pakistan and Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club promises an exciting start to the series. Pakistan aims to extend their dominance, while Zimbabwe will look to turn the tide on their home turf. As fans gear up for the action, stay tuned for live updates and analysis on Crickets24.com.
