Pakistan leveled the series by defeating Zimbabwe in the second ODI.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s impressive performance in the second ODI sealed a 10-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the three-match series, including a brilliant century from Saeem Ayub and four wickets from debutant Abrar Ahmed.

Chasing a modest target of 146, Pakistan won with 190 balls to spare in just 26.2 overs. Saim, in particular, was in superb form, scoring his maiden ODI century in just 53 balls – the third-fastest by a Pakistani batsman in men’s ODIs, behind only the legendary Shahid Afridi.

The left-hander’s explosive innings of 113* off 62 balls was studded with 20 fours, including three sixes. Abdullah Shafiq supported them with an unbeaten 32 as the duo bowled out Pakistan at home without losing a wicket.

Earlier, Zimbabwe’s batting woes continued as they were bundled out for just 145 runs in 32.5 overs. Pakistan’s bowlers were relentless under the leadership of Abrar Ahmed. Abrar starred on his ODI debut with figures of 4/33, while Salman Ali Agha also impressed with 3/34. Faisal Akram and Saeem Ayub took one wicket each.

Zimbabwe’s innings was on shaky ground, with openers Tadiwanashe Marumani (4) and Jewelred Gambi (5) departing early. A 38-run partnership between Dion Myers and skipper Craig Irwin provided brief hope, but the hosts soon found themselves in deep trouble. Myers, top scorer with 33, was dismissed by Agha, and the middle order collapsed quickly, leaving Zimbabwe at 97/5 by the 20th over.

Despite brief resistance from all-rounder Shaun Williams (31 off 39 balls), Zimbabwe managed just 145 runs, with neither batsman providing any significant support. Pakistan’s bowlers collapsed and Zimbabwe’s innings was reduced to 145 runs. With the series now level at 1-1, the final ODI will be played at the same venue on Thursday, with both teams desperate to clinch the series.