Our batting came under pressure: Rizwan

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s batting line-up faltered under the combined pressure of Zimbabwe’s spin and pace attack, said Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan.

“The new-look batting line-up was unable to handle the pressure,” he said. “Being reduced to 58 for 6 was far from the ideal start to the series.”

Chasing a modest target under the DLS method, Pakistan managed only 60 for 6 in 21.1 overs, well short of the required 141 to secure victory. Early dismissals and mounting pressure proved to be the downfall of the touring side.

Rizwan admitted giving too many runs in the latter half. “We gave away easy runs in the latter stage of Zimbabwe’s innings. Sikander Raza and Richard Ngarava played pivotal roles in adding crucial runs, which shifted the momentum in their favour. The target wasn’t unachievable; we simply didn’t rise to the challenge,” he said.

Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine praised his side’s all-around performance. “The bowlers did an exceptional job, especially in reducing Pakistan to 58 for 6. While we could have scored more runs, our bowlers ensured the game swung back in our favour,” Ervine said.

Man of the Match Sikander Raza shone with both bat and ball. Ervine lauded Raza’s contributions, stating, “He was brilliant throughout the match and played a significant role in securing the victory.”

Despite their strong start to the series, Zimbabwe’s captain acknowledged that improvements in batting could make their side even more formidable.