Xtra Time Web Desk: Zimbabwe created one of the major upsets in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2022 as they defeated one of the favourites Pakistan in a final-ball thriller at Optus stadium in Perth on Thursday night. The loss will definitely dash Babar Azam and co. hopes of advancing to the semi finals of the ongoing tournament.
In reply to Zimbabwe’s 8-130 on Thursday night, Pakistan’s run chase was a topsy-turvy affair, but they were on track for victory after getting the equation down to four runs required off the final four balls.
Mohammad Nawaz, whose horror final over against India cost his team victory at the MCG, this time looked set to be the match winner in Perth after moving to 22. But when he was caught at mid-off on the penultimate ball of the innings, it left Pakistan needing three off the final delivery.
Shaheen Shah Afridi, facing the final delivery from Brad Evans, bunted the ball down the ground in what under normal circumstances would only end up being a single.
Pakistan needed two to send it to a Super Over, but Afridi tried to scramble back for the second. Zimbabwe fans would have had their hearts in their mouths when wicketkeeper Regis Chakabva fumbled the incoming throw. But when Chakabva recovered from the juggle and whipped off the bails, it sparked wild celebrations among Zimbabwe’s players.