Pakistan overpower Zimbabwe

Shoaib Malik and Younis Khan hit magnificent half centuries to help Pakistan beat Zimbabwe in the second tri-series match here on Sunday.

Malik blasted a crafty 80 while Younis scored a fighting 77 to help Pakistan reach the victory target in reply to Zimbabwe’s 252-4 in their 50 overs despite the home team resting some key players.

Pakistan faltered in the run chase before a fifth wicket stand of 114 between Malik and Younis brought them close to victory, watched by a crowd of 15,000 people.

Malik was brilliantly caught at long-on by Stuart Matsikenyeri with 53 runs needed while Younis was run out with just one to get, leaving Shahid Afridi to surpass the target with a six off the first ball of the 49th over. Malik’s 104-ball innings was spiced with four boundaries and a six