The international cricket is back in Pakistan with the home team celebrating the occasion with a comprehensive win over Zimbabwe at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
This was first international cricket in Pakistan after almost six years and the Pakistan cricket fans were present in full capacity to support the Green Brigade.
Pakistan defeated a spirited Zimbabwe side by five wickets in the 1st T20 international to provide the home fans a much-needed need cheer after a very long time.
“It’s a great occasion and the win made it greater,” said Shahid Afridi. “With this match we have given a positive message to the world that Pakistan is a safe country.”
The result didn’t go Zimbabwe’s way, despite making a strong start, after batting first. The Zimbabwe openers Hamilton Masakadza and Vusi Sibanda made a strong start, while their skipper Elton Chigumbura made a scorching fifty to take the hosts to a competitive total.
“They supported both teams and it’s always good to play in front of big crowds and hopefully more spectators will come to the next games too,” said Chigumbura. “It shows that Pakistan people love cricket. We’ve been safe and well looked after.”
Chasing 173 was going to be a challenging task, if not difficult, but Pakistan openers, Mukhtar Ahmed and Ahmed Shehzad, ensured they get a rock solid start.
Zimbabwe crawled back into the contest with quick wickets, but a 142-run opening wicket stand almost ended the game then and there for the visitors as it was just a formality after that.
There was nothing more left for the hosts to do and they managed to chase down the total with three balls to spare, and quite comfortably.
