Saim Ayub’s blistering century powers Pakistan to series-levelling win over Zimbabwe

Saim Ayub struck a scintillating unbeaten 113 as Pakistan crushed Zimbabwe by 10 wickets in Bulawayo on Tuesday, leveling the one-day international series 1-1 with one match remaining.
Chasing a modest 146 at Queens Sports Club, Pakistan’s opening duo of Ayub and Abdullah Shafique (32 not out) breezed to the target in just 18.2 overs. Ayub’s explosive knock, which included 17 fours and three sixes, came off just 62 balls, marking the second-fastest ODI century by a Pakistani, behind only Shahid Afridi.
“We’ve put the first game behind us and are focusing on one game at a time,” Ayub said after being named Player of the Match. “The pitch conditions varied today, and I adjusted accordingly. We practice for all types of surfaces.”
Earlier, Pakistan’s bowlers made quick work of Zimbabwe’s batting lineup. Debutant Abrar Ahmed claimed 4-33, while Salman Ali Agha took 3-26 to bowl the hosts out for a paltry 145 in 32.3 overs. Dion Myers (33) and Sean Williams (31) were the only notable scorers for Zimbabwe.
The decider is set for Thursday, with the teams now eyeing a series victory before Pakistan transitions to the T20I leg of their tour.
(Source: AFP)