Zimbabwe takes on Pakistan in the second ODI at Queens Sports Club tomorrow, riding high from their rain-assisted 80-run triumph in the series opener. The hosts, who posted 205 in challenging batting conditions, will look to capitalize on their momentum and secure a rare series win against Pakistan.
The Zimbabwean bowling was stern, with both spinners – Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza – creating problems for Pakistan’s batting lineup on a turning track. This was Zimbabwe’s first victory over Pakistan in the ODIs for Zimbabwe since 2013 at home.
Pakistan ranked higher at world No. 8 compared with Zimbabwe’s No. 12, is under intense pressure after winning only two of their last six ODIs. The visitors will have to resolve batting issues, more so against spinners, with star batsman Abdullah Shafique still being a cause for worry.
Also read: PAK vs ZIM Match Preview- 2nd ODI, Pakistan tour of Zimbabwe 2024
PAK vs ZIM Team Analysis
Pakistan
Mohammad Rizwan will be leading Pakistan in the PAK vs ZIM match. The onus will be on Rizwan to lead the team from the front.
Zimbabwe
Craig Ervine will be leading Zimbabwe in the second game.
PAK vs ZIM Key Factors
Pitch Conditions
The second ODI between PAK vs ZIM will be played at the Queen Sports Club in Bulawayo. The deck in Bulawayo Zimbabwe promises something for everyone.
It is a solid, hard track that offers good bounce to the bowlers, and the batters enjoy the ball coming well onto the bat. The spinners too could be as effective for them, especially the middle overs-well timed to get them gripping the ball so well against the batters.
Form and Fitness
Tactical Acumen
Pakistan
Pakistan has a balanced lineup with in-form players. Their top order, featuring Abdullah Shafique and Saim Ayub will look to, while the middle order, led by Mohammad Rizwan adds stability.
The team will lean on Haris Rauf and Mohammad Hasnain’s pace to unsettle Zimbabwe’s batting lineup.
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe, playing at home, will look to use familiar conditions to its benefit. Much will depend on captain Craig Ervine and the seasoned Sikandar Raza in anchoring the innings and thwarting Pakistan’s potent bowling attack.
Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava will be crucial with the ball and look to capitalize on any vulnerabilities that Pakistan’s top order might have.
PAK vs ZIM Match Prediction- 2nd ODI, Pakistan tour of Zimbabwe 2024
PAK vs ZIM Score Prediction
| Team | 1st Innings | 2nd Innings |
| PAK | 220-250 | 200-220 |
| ZIM | 200-230 | 180-210 |
PAK vs ZIM Key Players
PAK: Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shahnawaz Dahani, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain will be key players for Pakistan.
ZIM: Craig Ervine, Brian Bennett, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams, Blessing Muzarabani, and Richard Ngarava will be key players for Zimbabwe.
Best Batsman Prediction
Who will score the most runs for PAK in the match: Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub
Who will score the most runs for ZIM in the match: Craig Ervine or Sikandar Raza
Best Bowler Prediction
Who will pick the most wickets for PAK in the match: Haris Rauf or Mohammad Hasnain
Who will pick the most wickets for ZIM in the match: Blessing Muzarbani or Richard Ngarava
Conclusion – Who will win the match?
Pakistan has been in great form in ODIs. The opening pair of Abdullah Shafique and Saim Ayub has been solid, and Haris Rauf’s fiery bowling, which was unstoppable in Australia, adds to their strength.
Zimbabwe will have the advantage of playing at home and can ride home on confidence.