TL;DR
- Pakistan is favored against Zimbabwe due to strong recent form and a full squad.
- Babar Azam's return and a potent pace attack give Pakistan a significant advantage.
- Zimbabwe faces challenges with Muzarabani's withdrawal and batting inconsistency.
- Pakistan holds an 18-3 head-to-head record against Zimbabwe in T20Is.
Pakistan and Zimbabwe are scheduled to compete in the initial T20I in Rawalpindi, with the home team being the distinct favorites due to their impressive performance across various game types. Pakistan arrives for this series having recently achieved a 3-0 victory in ODIs against Sri Lanka and a 2-1 win in T20Is versus South Africa. The reintegration of Babar Azam and a complete pace bowling unit, spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, significantly strengthens the squad.
Zimbabwe arrive after a tough 0-3 T20I defeat to Afghanistan and the late withdrawal of Blessing Muzarabani, which weakens their bowling. Sikandar Raza’s side still carries experience through Brendan Taylor, Richard Ngarava, and Craig Ervine, but inconsistency remains a concern.
Pakistan possesses a distinct edge in this contest and enters with significant momentum, whereas Zimbabwe will be aiming for an unexpected victory to kick off the series favorably.
Pakistan versus Zimbabwe: A Prediction of the Victor.
Pakistan appears to be in a stronger position to win the first match of the series. Their recent performance at home, a more robust batting lineup spearheaded by Babar Azam, and a balanced fast bowling unit provide them with a distinct advantage. While Zimbabwe possesses the capability to compete, they'll require an almost flawless execution to pose a threat to Pakistan in Rawalpindi.
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Pakistan and Zimbabwe's T20 International head-to-head statistics
In their 21 T20 international encounters, Pakistan holds a dominant 18-3 advantage over Zimbabwe in their head-to-head record.
- Total matches: 21
- Pakistan wins: 18
- Zimbabwe wins: 3
- Tied/No result: 0
Pakistan vs Zimbabwe: Form & Forecast
Pakistan and Zimbabwe head into their upcoming clash with contrasting T20I momentum. Pakistan have picked up three wins in their last five outings, including two sharp results over South Africa. Their top order has been solid in run chases, and the bowling group has delivered impact spells in Lahore.
Zimbabwe has secured two victories in their most recent five matches, with all three defeats occurring against Afghanistan. Their successful performances against Namibia and Kenya demonstrate their capability to manage matches on home soil. Both teams have accumulated significant playing experience, although the caliber of their opponents has varied considerably.
Pakistan's Recent T20I Performance: Last 5 Matches (All Tournaments)
- Pakistan won by 4 wickets vs South Africa (Lahore)
- Pakistan won by 9 wickets vs South Africa (Lahore)
- South Africa won by 55 runs vs Pakistan (Rawalpindi)
- India won by 5 wickets vs Pakistan (Dubai)
- Pakistan won by 11 runs vs Bangladesh (Dubai)
Zimbabwe's Recent T20I Performance: Last 5 Matches (All Competitions)
- Afghanistan won by 9 runs vs Zimbabwe (Harare)
- Afghanistan won by 7 wickets vs Zimbabwe (Harare)
- Afghanistan won by 53 runs vs Zimbabwe (Harare)
- Zimbabwe won by 7 wickets vs Namibia (Harare)
- Zimbabwe won by 7 wickets vs Kenya (Harare)
AllSportsPeople' Forecast for the PAK vs SL 1st T20I
- If Pakistan bat first: 165–185 runs
- If Zimbabwe bat first: 135–150 runs
Expected Result: Pakistan enter with better form against stronger opposition, and their depth gives them a clear edge. They are well placed to take the win in this fixture.
Pakistan vs Zimbabwe: Probable lineups and team updates
Pakistan Team News
Pakistan heads into the contest in excellent shape with Salman Ali Agha at the helm, strengthened by Babar Azam's comeback following his impressive ODI series versus Sri Lanka. Fakhar Zaman steps in for Hasan Nawaz, who was permitted to play domestic cricket, providing the top batting lineup with enhanced attacking capabilities.
With Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah at the forefront of a stable fast bowling attack, Faheem Ashraf's current wicket-taking form provides valuable equilibrium. Babar Azam continues to be the central figure in the batting lineup, and the squad is looking for Saim Ayub to regain his rhythm following a period of low scoring.
Pakistan (predicted playing XI): Babar Azam (c), Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Salman Mirza
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Zimbabwe Team News
Zimbabwe arrive with a settled 15-man squad led by Sikandar Raza, combining experienced names like Brendan Taylor with several young prospects. The major setback is the absence of Blessing Muzarabani, ruled out with a back injury, prompting the call-up of uncapped pacer Newman Nyamhuri.
Recurring problems with batting inconsistency and pressure in the final overs persist, yet the team is entirely healthy except for Muzarabani. They'll rely on Raza's all-around contributions and Taylor's seasoned presence as they aim to compete with Pakistan.
Zimbabwe (predicted playing XI): Sikandar Raza (c), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Tadiwanashe, Marumani, Clive Madande, Dion Myers, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Graeme Cremer, Wellington Masakadza, Newman Nyamhuri
Key Players to Monitor – Pakistan vs. Zimbabwe First T20 International
Babar Azam (Pakistan): The leading hitter is back in excellent form, having been the second-highest scorer in the Sri Lanka ODI series, where he also hit a brilliant century. His skill against fast bowlers and spinners alike establishes him as Pakistan's most dependable source of runs at home.
Shaheen Shah Afridi (Pakistan): Pakistan’s strike pacer remains a threat with the new ball and at the death. His ability to swing it early and break partnerships quickly gives Pakistan a decisive edge.
Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe): The captain shoulders Zimbabwe’s hopes with his all-round impact. His experience, ability to stabilize the innings, and wicket-taking off-spin make him the most influential player in their lineup.
PAK vs. ZIM betting predictions and odds: Who's favored?
Dafabet reports that Pakistan are the distinct favorites heading into the second ODI, with odds of 1.17 against Zimbabwe's 4.95.
Odds* (click here to bet) | |
Pakistan | 1.17 |
Zimbabwe | 4.95 |
*odds are correct at the time of publish
TSN’s Top 3 Predictions:
- With excellent recent performance and their complete team available, Pakistan is in a favorable spot to secure victory.
- Babar Azam to reach 50 or more runs: Following his performance in the Sri Lanka series, he's now Pakistan's most reliable batsman.
- Shaheen Afridi is expected to claim at least two wickets, as his early-innings swing bowling and precise execution in the death overs are likely to pose significant challenges for Zimbabwe's top batsmen.
PAK vs. ZIM 1st T20 live scorecard
You can track the Pakistan vs. Zimbabwe match live by using the live scorecard available on Dafabet's website.
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India: PAK v ZIM 1st T20 view
- Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
- Date & Time (IST): Tuesday, November 18, 6:30 pm
- Live Telecast & Streaming Details: N/A
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