PAK vs ZIM: Tri-Series T20 Thriller

PAK vs ZIM: A Crucial Clash in Rawalpindi

The cricketing world turns its eyes to Rawalpindi as Pakistan and Zimbabwe face off in the opening match of the highly anticipated T20 Tri-Series 2025. This encounter isn't just another bilateral series—it's a vital preparation ground for all three teams ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

The Big Picture: World Cup Preparations

With the T20 World Cup just two months away, this tri-series featuring Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe serves as a critical tuning stage. Teams are finalizing strategies, testing combinations, and building momentum. Pakistan enters as the strongest contender, boasting an impressive 17-12 T20I win-loss record in 2025, including a series victory over South Africa. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, secured their World Cup spot by dominating the Africa qualifiers but faces a sterner test against higher-ranked opponents here.

Pakistan: Riding High on Bowling Dominance

Under Salman Agha's leadership, Pakistan has found a winning formula centered around their potent bowling attack. Recent victories against South Africa were built on restricting opponents to low totals, followed by smooth chases. The return of star batter Babar Azam adds firepower to the lineup. After a period away from T20Is, Babar's match-winning 68 off 47 balls against South Africa signals his resurgence. His presence alongside explosive opener Fakhar Zaman (recently added to the squad) gives Pakistan a formidable top order.

Zimbabwe: Bennett's Brilliance Under Scrutiny

Zimbabwe arrives with newfound confidence after their Africa qualifier triumph, powered by opening batter Brian Bennett's extraordinary form. Bennett amassed 314 runs in just five innings with a staggering strike rate of 181.50, including a century and three fifties. However, the challenge intensifies as Pakistan and Sri Lanka's bowlers now have extensive footage to dissect his game. Captain Sikandar Raza will rely on his all-round capabilities to steer the team against stronger opposition.

Match Essentials: Where to Watch

When: Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM IST (Toss at 6:00 PM IST)
Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium (entire series moved here due to security concerns)
Live Streaming: Sports TV YouTube channel (India)

Squad Updates

Pakistan: Salman Ali Agha (capt), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, and more.
Zimbabwe: Sikandar Raza (capt), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Blessing Muzarabani (ruled out, replaced by Newman Nyamhuri), and Brendan Taylor.

Head-to-Head and Historical Context

Despite Zimbabwe's recent success against Pakistan (2 wins in last 4 meetings), they've historically struggled in Pakistan, losing all five T20Is played there. The Rawalpindi pitch promises a batting-friendly surface, but winter conditions could lead to fielding lapses as evening temperatures dip to the low teens.

"This series is a chance for Pakistan to build on T20 advances, while Zimbabwe aims to prove their World Cup credentials against top-tier opponents."
— ESPNcricinfo Analysis

What's Next?

As Zimbabwe faces Pakistan's formidable bowling attack, Bennett's form will be critical. For Pakistan, integrating Babar Azam and maintaining their bowling dominance are key objectives. Both teams will use this match as a blueprint for World Cup strategies, making every run and wicket pivotal.