KARACHI: Centuries by Gull Feroza and Sadaf Shamas powered Pakistan to a crushing 206-run victory over Zimbabwe in the second women’s One-day International at the National Bank Stadium on Wednesday, sealing the three-match series.
The opening duo put on a commanding display, sharing a 189-run partnership that laid the foundation for Pakistan’s imposing total of 343 for four in 50 overs.
Gull was the more aggressive of the two, striking 13 boundaries in a fluent 100 off 95 balls before being stumped in the 31st over. Sadaf, meanwhile, added a composed 101 off 112 deliveries, hitting 10 fours and a six to keep the innings on track.
After Gull’s departure, Sadaf continued to build before falling in the 40th over with the score at 237.
Sidra Amin ensured there was no let-up in momentum, remaining unbeaten on 59 off 58 balls. Captain Fatima Sana and Aliya Riaz then accelerated in the death overs with brisk cameos of 25 and 27 respectively, both scoring at striking rates close to 200. Ayesha Zafar provided the final flourish with an unbeaten 18 off just eight deliveries.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs, with Lindokuhle Mabhero, Nomvelo Sibanda, Christine Mutasa and Olinder Chare picking up a wicket apiece.
In pursuit of a daunting 344, Zimbabwe faltered early and never recovered. The visitors slipped to nine for two inside three overs as Pakistan’s attackers made immediate breakthroughs.
Kelis Ndhlovu (32) and Beloved Biza (29) offered brief resistance with a 57-run stand for the third wicket, but the required rate continued to climb.
Once that partnership was broken, Zimbabwe’s innings unraveled quickly. Regular wickets pegged them back, and despite Runyararo Pasipanodya’s unbeaten 33, the side was bowled out for 137 in 39 overs.
Pakistan’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, led by captain Fatima, who claimed three wickets for 15 runs. Rameen Shamim and Syeda Aroob Shah picked up two wickets each, while Momina Riasat also grabbed two. Diana Baig chipped in with one wicket.
Published in Dawn, May 7th, 2026
