Zimbabwe chased down 245 at the loss of just three wickets to complete a historic victory against Pakistan in the first One Day International between the two countries being played here in Harare, on Tuesday.
This is the first time in 15 years that Zimbabwe has beaten Pakistan in an ODI. Their last win came in a 1998 game played at Sheikhupura.
After Pakistan set them a target of 245, Zimbabwe’s openers Hamilton Masakadza and Vusi Sibanda opened in commanding fashion to establish a century partnership.
The Pakistani bowlers seemed clueless as both openers struck them freely all over the ground. Sibanda fell soon to Saeed Ajmal soon after completing his half-century, but his partner Masakadza dominated his way to 85, an innings featuring nine fours and one six.
Pakistan could manage only one more wicket after that as captain Brendan Taylor and an aggressive Sean Williams easily reached the target with 10 balls to spare.
As victory appeared within a hand’s reach, the talented Sean Williams hit a six off Mohammad Irfan in the penultimate over to seal a historic victory for his team.
Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first.
Hamilton Masakadza was awarded Man of the Match.
Pakistan will played 2nd ODI on 29th August 2013 at Harare Sports Club.
