Blessing Muzarabani picked up three wickets in the last 10 overs of Day 1. Despite that, Pakistan finished Day 1 of the second and final Test of the series, at Harare Sports Club, on top, at 268/4 – though at one point they were 248/1.
Imran Butt (2) fell early after Babar Azam won the toss and opted to bat first. Richard Ngarava (1-35) had given Zimbabwe the early breakthrough with a sharp bouncer. Following that, Abid Ali (118*) and Azhar Ali (126) registered a 236-run stand for the second wicket, the highest ever at the venue. Zimbabwe went wicketless for 75 overs between the first and the third sessions.
Brendan Taylor took the second new ball after 80 overs, immediately after it was available. Muzarabani then removed Azhar, Babar (2) and Fawad Alam (5) in quick succession, between the 83rd and 87th overs, to give his side some hope at the end. All three wickets came after poor shot selection by the Pakistani batters.
Azhar brought up his 18th Test century with a thickish edge that went for four towards the third man. He never seemed uncomfortable in the crease throughout his stay. Abid, however, was dropped on 94 by Regis Chakabva behind stumps. The lifeline helped him to bring the third hundred of his 12-year young Test career.
After inspiring Zimbabwe to clinch their first-ever T20 victory over Pakistan earlier in the tour, Luke Jongwe was rewarded with the maiden Test cap before the match began. Unfortunately, this time, he has failed to sparkle, ended his figure at 0-32.
Zimbabwe hope to begin Day 2 with the momentum they gained from the first afternoon. However, being 0-1 down, there is little chance for them to level the series. Pakistan already have a decent total, and have got five specialist bowlers in their line-up.
Brief scores:
Pakistan 268/4 (Azhar Ali 126, Abid Ali 118*; Blessing Muzarabani 3-41) vs Zimbabwe.