RAWALPINDI: Captain Babar Azam hit a fluent half century and spurred Pakistan to a six-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the first Twenty20 international at the Pindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
Babar proved yet again why he is one of the top batsmen in white-ball cricket as the right-hander made 82 off 55 balls, while reaching his 15th half century in Twenty20 Internationals as Pakistan eased to 157-4 in 18.5 overs for a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Mohammad Hafeez scored 36 off 32 balls and together with Babar shared an 80-run stand as fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani finished with 2-26.
Earlier, 20-year-old Wesley Madhevere hit nine fours and a six to score an unbeaten 70 from 48 deliveries but the host team still restricted Zimbabwe at 156-6.
“I am quite satisfied with my innings today,” said man-of-the-match Babar, who hit nine fours and a six in his knock. “I apply my game in the middle but the main thing is I enjoy the game.”
