KARACHI: A dazzling century by Ayesha Zafar and a fiery spell from captain Fatima Sana powered Pakistan to a crushing 153-run victory over Zimbabwe in the opening fixture of the three-match women’s Twenty20 International series at the National Bank Stadium here on Tuesday night.

After being asked to bat, Pakistan piled up an imposing 237-5 — their highest total in women’s T20Is — before bowling Zimbabwe out for 84 in 18.2 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Ayesha led the charge with a sensational unbeaten 102 off only 47 balls, smashing 15 fours and two sixes in an innings that completely dominated the visitors’ attack. It was the opener’s maiden T20I century and came at a blistering strike rate of over 217.

She found solid support from Aliya Riaz, who hammered 48 off 23 deliveries with four fours and four sixes, while Gull Feroza gave Pakistan early momentum through a rapid 37 off 19 balls.

Pakistan raced to 68-3 inside six overs despite losing wickets regularly in the powerplay. Ayesha then rebuilt the innings before launching an assault alongside Aliya in a fifth-wicket stand worth 67 runs.

Captain Fatima added late impetus with an unbeaten 21 off 13 balls as Pakistan plundered 70 runs in the final five overs.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled throughout, with skipper Nomvelo Sibanda conceding 59 runs in her four overs despite claiming two wickets.

The chase never gathered momentum as Fatima ripped through the top order with figures of 3-7 in three overs. Zimbabwe slumped to 16-5 inside five overs, effectively ending the contest.

Sadia Iqbal and Natalia Pervaiz took two wickets apiece, while Rameen Shamim chipped in with one.

Only Natasha Mtomba offered some resistance with 24, while Adel Zimunu made 18, but Zimbabwe never threatened Pakistan’s dominance in any phase of the match.

Published in Dawn, May 13th, 2026