RAWALPINDI: Pakistan&#39;s spinners delivered tight bowling spells that kept Zimbabwe from putting up a strong score in the opening game of the T20I tri-series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

Pakistan decided to bowl first after winning the toss. Zimbabwe reached 147 for 8 in 20 overs. That came even with a decent opening.

The Zimbabwe openers Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani put together a solid seventy-two-run stand in only eight overs. They played quickly right from the power play. Both of them scored briskly during that phase. They even scored 13 runs off the first over from captain Shaheen Afridi.

The duo attacked the fast bowlers, using the field restrictions well. They took 11 off Saim Ayub&rsquo;s fifth over and 17 off Abrar Ahmed&rsquo;s sixth. This resulted in the visitors being 59/0 at the end of the power play.

The game changed when spinner Mohammad Nawaz came into the attack. He slowed the scoring and broke the stand by removing Marumani. Marumani was out after hitting three fours and a six in his 30 from 22 balls.

Then the second wicket came soon after. Brendan Taylor fell as the next one out. It happened because of a mix-up on the run. That led to a sudden drop in momentum and stopped Zimbabwe from building further. Taylor departed after scoring 14. As a result, they were reduced to 91-2 in 11 overs.

After the first ten overs, the Green Shirts put the brakes on the visitors&rsquo; scoring rate and never allowed them to recover. Brian Bennett was the star batsman for Zimbabwe, finishing as the top-scorer with 49 from 36, laced with eight fours.

Mohammad Nawaz took two wickets. Abrar Ahmed got one. Saim Ayub claimed the other one.

Pakistan XI: 1 Sahibzada Farhan, 2 Saim Ayub, 3 Babar Azam, 4 Salman Ali Agha (capt), 5 Usman Khan (wk), 6 Fakhar Zaman, 7 Mohammad Nawaz, 8 Faheem Ashraf, 9 Shaheen Shah Afridi, 10 Mohammad Salman Mirza, 11 Abrar Ahmed

Zimbabwe XI: 1 Brian Bennett, 2 Ryan Burl, 3 Sikandar Raza (capt.), 4 Bradley Evans, 5 Brendan Taylor (wk), 6 Tadiwanashe Marumani, 7 Tashinga Musekiwa, 8 Tony Munyonga, 9 Graeme Cremer, 10 Tinotenda Maposa, 11 Richard Ngarava

Pakistan's slow bowlers dominated the middle overs, holding Zimbabwe to 147 runs despite a fast start in the T20I tri-series opener.

Pakistan Restricts Zimbabwe to 147 in 1st Match of Tri-Series

Complete Zimbabwe vs Namibia 2nd T20I preview with highlights, squads, recent stats, and key factors. Find top batters and bowlers to watch in this exciting clash.

Zimbabwe vs Namibia 2nd T20I Match Preview, Key Players, and Predictions

Zimbabwe Cricket star Sikandar Raza has reached a historic milestone by becoming the world&#39;s No.1 ODI all-rounder, something he has only done once in his career. This has positioned the veteran all-rounder as the first choice in the ICC Men&#39;s ODI Player Ranking after his impressive performance during the recent series against Sri Lanka in Harare.

The 39-year-old gave two powerhouse performances with the bat, scoring 92 runs in the first match and then topping that with an unbeaten 59 in the second. He, too, contributed to this wicket, i.e., his name was inserted on this wicket. Those efforts enabled Zimbabwe to stay in the game and propelled Raza above Afghanistan&#39;s Azmatullah Omarzai and Mohammad Nabi to the top spot.

Raza has now claimed first place after having scored second place in his career already in December 2023. His 151 runs in the two games have also boosted his batting rating, placing him again in the top 25 ODI batters, just one place short of his career best of 24th. Raza had risen a step higher to 38th on the bowling charts, which further reflects his general consistency.

The series also featured great performers on both sides. Pathum Nissanka, who scored a total of 198 runs and was named Player of the Series, became the twelfth Sri Lankan to make the top 15 ODI batters. Meanwhile, Sean Williams of Zimbabwe also climbed the ratings following consistent contributions on the batting front.

This means a personal win but also a win for Zimbabwean cricket, which is what Raza considers to be. A prolific scorer in big matches, Raza has become the mainstay of his team over the years, with match-winning knocks and other essential spells whenever required. His capability and willpower have helped him to achieve No.1 so far in his career.

This new accolade has not only solidified Sikandar Raza as one of the very best in the history of international cricket, but he will be called upon to assist Zimbabwe in preparing to meet future international challenges.

Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza becomes the world’s top-ranked ODI all-rounder for the first time after stellar performances against Sri Lanka.

Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza Rises to No.1 in ODI All-Rounder Rankings

Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza has achieved a career milestone, becoming the top-ranked ODI all-rounder for the first time in his career. These rankings are according to the <a href="https://www.icc-cricket.com/rankings/allrounder/mens/odi">latest ICC </a>reports. Raza&rsquo;s innings in the recent two-match ODI series against Sri Lanka was the main differentiator, scoring 92 and&nbsp; 59 in his innings, while also grabbing a wicket.

These contributions have taken Raza past Azmatullah Omarzai and Afghanistan&rsquo;s experienced all-rounder Mohammad Nabi. The two now trail at second and third respectively.&nbsp;This rise to the top represents Raza&rsquo;s performance and determination on the pitch. His form also earned him a leap to 22nd position in ODI batting rankings and 38th position in the bowling ranking.

This milestone is more than a ranking upgrade; it&rsquo;s a powerful testament to persistence, skill, and late-career resurgence. Raza&rsquo;s achievement is a beacon for players across the globe.

Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza becomes the No. 1 ranked ODI all-rounder in the latest ICC rankings after standout performances against Sri Lanka. A major career milestone for the veteran star.

Sikandar Raza Clinches No. 1 ODI All-Rounder Spot at Age 39

Sri Lanka emerged the victor in a nail-biting first T20I with Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club by 4 wickets and 5 balls to spare. It was a slugger of a game in which some massive hits, wickets, and instances of spectators sitting on the margins were made.

<h2>Zimbabwe Post Competitive Total</h2>

When Zimbabwe batted first, it had a good total of 175/7 in 20 overs, and it was reached largely due to the magnificent performance of a player called Brian Bennett. The opener made 81 out of 57 balls to the board that had 12 boundaries. 28 of 22 were with skipper Sikandar Raza, and 17 with Ryan Burl.

In Sri Lanka, Dushmantha Chameera was the most successful with the ball, hitting 3/30 in 4 overs, and Maheesh Theekshana and Dushan Hemantha took one wicket apiece. The visitors could retain Zimbabwe below 180, although they burst out late.

<h3>Nissanka Anchors, Kamindu Finishes in Style</h3>

Sri Lanka made a good start in pursuit of 176 after Pathum Nissanka hit 55 with 4 fours and 2 sixes on only 32 balls. Wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis kept the chase going with 38 off 35 balls alongside him.

But Zimbabwe retaliated with rapid wickets during the middle overs and kept Sri Lanka on its toes at 106/4 in the 13th over.

It was then that Kamindu Mendis made the turnaround. On only 16 balls, the left-hander plowed 41 not out with 4 sixes and 1 four. His fear of hitting also saw him hit 26 in one game, a game that changed the tide of the match in favour of Sri Lanka.

Dushan Hemantha provided good support with 14* off 9 balls, as Sri Lanka reached 177/6 in 19.1 overs to seal the win.

<h3>Zimbabwe&rsquo;s Best Efforts Fall Short</h3>

The bowlers of Zimbabwe did their best, but Richard Ngarava was outstanding as he took 2/19 in 4 overs. Captain Raza also contributed a wicket with Blessing Muzarabani and Tinotenda Maposa chipping in with one wicket each.

Their fightback notwithstanding, Kamindu came in late with an attack that was too much to handle as Sri Lanka surged across the finish line in style.

<h2>What&rsquo;s Next?</h2>

Sri Lanka leads the T20I series by 1-0, and the second game in the series will be another thriller at the same place. Zimbabwe will want to come back and renew the series.

Sri Lanka beat Zimbabwe by 4 wickets in a thrilling first T20I at Harare, sealing victory in the final over.

Sri Lanka Beat Zimbabwe by 4 Wickets in Close First T20I

Zimbabwe&rsquo;s left-arm spinner Kelis Ndhlovu has been stopped from bowling in international cricket after her action failed an independent review. The 19-year-old was first reported by officials during the opening ODI against Ireland in Belfast on July 26, and the assessment in Pretoria confirmed the irregularities.

The ICC announced that the suspension takes effect immediately. Under the rules, Ndhlovu must correct her technique and provide a new test report before she can bowl again.

Although she is very young, Ndhlovu has already been the center of Zimbabwe cricket. She led the Under-19 team at the first ICC Women&#39;s U19 T20 World Cup in 2023 and has since been added to the senior team. Her numbers speak it all: 19 wickets in 13 ODIs and 44 in 51 T20Is, at average scores that any spinner could only desire.

Her exit is a setback to Zimbabwe because she used to give the wickets during the middle overs. The fans and team members have hope that she will soon be able to adjust her actions and return, as there is no denying her immense talent.

Want every moment of cricket? tapmad keeps you right at the pitch with instant updates and live matches.

Zimbabwe all-rounder Kelis Ndhlovu suspended from bowling in international cricket after her action was declared illegal.

Zimbabwe’s Kelis Ndhlovu suspended from bowling over illegal action

Building on his previous form and performance from the series opener, fast bowler Matt Henry delivered another commanding performance as New Zealand took complete control on the opening day of the second Test at Queens Sports Club.

Matt Henry claimed 5 for 40, swiftly dismantling Zimbabwe&#39;s batting lineup and helping to bundle them out for just 125 in 48.5 overs.

Henry&rsquo;s innings was supported by Zakary Foulkes who impressed on his debut match with a composed 4 for 38, reinforcing New Zealand&#39;s dominance.

On the other hand, openers Devon Conway (79*) and Will Young (74) put up a commanding 162-run stand, enabling New Zealand to finish at 174/1, leading by 49 runs at stumps.

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			Performance Area
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			Highlights
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			Bowling
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			<td style="border-bottom:1px solid #000000; border-left:1px solid #000000; border-right:1px solid #000000; border-top:1px solid #000000; vertical-align:top; width:441px">
			Henry&rsquo;s 5 wickets for 40 and Foulkes&rsquo;s 4 wickets for 38 put Zimbabwe on the back foot.
			</td>
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			Conway and Young set a commanding opening which laid down the foundation.
			</td>
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			Match Control
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			<td style="border-bottom:1px solid #000000; border-left:1px solid #000000; border-right:1px solid #000000; border-top:1px solid #000000; vertical-align:top; width:441px">
			New Zealand end Day 1 with a 49-run lead and overwhelming momentum.
			</td>
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</table>

&nbsp;

The all-round excellence of New Zealand&rsquo;s pace attack combined with a strong start with the bat puts them firmly in contention for a swift and decisive Test win.

Building on his previous form and performance from the series opener, fast bowler Matt Henry delivered another commanding performance

Matt Henry Stars Again: New Zealand Dominate Day One in Second Test

New Zealand pacer Matt Henry delivered a career-defining performance, taking 6 for 39 to dismantle Zimbabwe for just 149 in the first innings of the opening Test. With the tourists reaching 92/0 at stumps, New Zealand hold a commanding 57‑run lead and strong momentum heading into Day 2.

<h2>Henry Spins the Momentum</h2>

Henry&#39;s 6-wicket haul, comprising 15.3 overs with three maidens, included pivotal scalps such as top-order batters Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, and Nick Welch, as well as skipper Craig Ervine and middle-order threat Sikandar Raza. His figures now stand as the best Test bowling performance by a New Zealand bowler in Zimbabwe, surpassing previous records on the ground.

Teaming up with Nathan Smith, who claimed 3/20, New Zealand&rsquo;s seam attack operated with ruthless precision to collapse Zimbabwe&rsquo;s batting lineup in just over 60 overs.

<h2>New Zealand Ride Smooth Opening Stand</h2>

In reply, openers Devon Conway (51*) and Will Young (41*) batted through the final session without loss, putting up 92 runs in 26 overs to edge ahead of the hosts before stumps. Their calm partnership wiped out more than half the deficit and laid the platform for a strong position on Day 2. 

With Zimbabwe bowled out inside two sessions and New Zealand dominating with both ball and bat, the Black Caps have laid the groundwork for what could be a lopsided Test. Expect momentum, confidence, and match control to stay with the visitors as play resumes.

New Zealand pacer Matt Henry delivered a career-defining performance, taking 6 for 39 to dismantle Zimbabwe for just 149 in the first innings

Henry’s Six-for Puts New Zealand Firmly in Control on Day 1 in Bulawayo

New Zealand will be without all-rounder Glenn Phillips for the first Test against Zimbabwe, with Michael Bracewell named as his replacement in the 15‑man squad. The match opens on 30 July at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, marking New Zealand&rsquo;s first Test series in Zimbabwe since 2016.

<h2>Injury &amp; Replacement</h2>

Phillips withdrew due to a right groin injury sustained while playing for Washington Freedom in the Major League Cricket (MLC) final in mid‑July. Head coach <a href="https://www.espn.co.uk/cricket/story/_/id/45819199/new-zealand-news-michael-bracewell-replaces-injured-phillips-first-test-zimbabwe">Rob Walter</a> described the decision to bring in Bracewell as straightforward: &ldquo;Glenn&rsquo;s injury provided a gap in the Test squad and Michael is the closest like‑for‑like replacement. His experience and skillset will be a great asset and allows us to keep the same balance of the team&rdquo;.

<h2>Bracewell&rsquo;s Role</h2>

Bracewell, 34, re-enters the Test side having last played red-ball for New Zealand in March 2023. He debuted in Tests in 2022 and has accrued 259 runs at 19.92 and 24 wickets at 41.79 across eight matches.&nbsp;

Despite prior unavailability due to commitments with the Southern Brave in The Hundred, Bracewell was already in Zimbabwe as part of New Zealand&rsquo;s T20 squad, making the timing ideal for his Test involvement.

Coach Walter also confirmed that after the opening Test, the coaching staff will reassess whether Bracewell remains available for the second Test. If not, another replacement will be named in due course.

<h2>Series Overview</h2>

<ul>
	<li>1st Test: 30 July &ndash; 3 August, Bulawayo 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>2nd Test: 7&ndash;11 August, Bulawayo 
	This two-match series follows a tri-nation T20 series involving New Zealand, Zimbabwe and South Africa, which concluded in Harare. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h2>What It Means</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Squad continuity: Bracewell&rsquo;s inclusion maintains the balance of batting and bowling strength in place of Phillips. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>All‑rounder depth: His red-ball versatility offers strategic flexibility in the middle order and with off-spin options. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Short-term solution: His tenure may be limited to one Test, but his presence underscores NZC&rsquo;s use of opportunistic squad depth during overlapping formats.

New Zealand will be without all-rounder Glenn Phillips for the first Test against Zimbabwe, with Michael Bracewell named as his replacement

Bracewell Steps In After Phillips Ruled Out of NZ’s First Test Against Zimbabwe

New Zealand secured a commanding 60-run victory over hosts Zimbabwe in their final tri-series round-robin match at the Harare Sports Club, maintaining their unbeaten record ahead of the final against South Africa.

Tim Seifert remained in his purple patch, scoring 75 runs off 45 balls with his second consecutive fifty in the tournament, and Rachin Ravindra chipped in valiantly with 63 off 39 balls. The second wicket partnership of 108 between the duo took New Zealand to a staggering 190/6 in their 20 overs to a tournament high.

<h2>Sodhi Steals the Show Early</h2>

In a key strategic move, leg-spinner&nbsp;Ish Sodhi&nbsp;matched his role as a powerplay bowler with sensational impact. He picked up a&nbsp;career-best 4/12, becoming the second New Zealand spinner to reach&nbsp;150 T20I wickets, all while bagging three of those wickets in the early powerplay overs.

Zimbabwe&#39;s reply collapsed under the pressure&mdash;reduced to&nbsp;44/5&nbsp;by the eighth over, the hosts managed just&nbsp;130 all out in 18.5 overs, thanks to Zimbabwe&rsquo;s Richard Ngarava grabbing 4/34 and Tony Munyonga offering some resistance with 40.

<h2>Series Position and Reaction</h2>

With the win, New Zealand finished with a&nbsp;perfect 4‑0 record, joining South Africa in the August 26 final. New Zealand captain: &ldquo;Different guys stepping up at different times is a good thing ... gave New Zealand a selection headache ahead of the final.&rdquo; He added that facing South Africa again will demand the ready execution of the plan.

<h2>What It Means</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Dominance in batting: New Zealand posted the highest tournament total (190/6) with two standout middle-order scores. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Brilliant spinning: Sodhi was a new part of the powerplay bowler, and it worked wonders as Zimbabwe were shocked in the early overs. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Wage fight: Zimbabwe suffered lapses in the field and a lack of discipline (seven wides, one no-ball, and dropped chances) despite the effort of Ngarava.</li>
</ul>

With the tri-series coming to an end, New Zealand enters the final of the series on Saturday with great momentum and form and is quite the favourite.

New Zealand secured a commanding 60-run victory over hosts Zimbabwe in their final tri-series round-robin match at the Harare Sports Club

Seifert & Ravindra Fire New Zealand to Clean Sweep Over Zimbabwe

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Zimbabwe Tri-Nation Series 2025

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