Haris Rauf And...? 3 Pakistan Players To Watch Out For In T20I Series Vs Zimbabwe

Soumyajit Dutta

Haris Rauf will be a key player to watch out for in the T20I series against Zimbabwe [Source: @IF7____/X.com]Haris Rauf will be a key player to watch out for in the T20I series against Zimbabwe [Source: @IF7____/X.com]

The T20I series between Zimbabwe and Pakistan is set to kick off on December 1, wrapping up with the final match on December 5 at Queens Sports Club. Before this, Pakistan had a solid showing in the ODI series, winning it 2-1 against Zimbabwe.

As the T20I action gets underway in Bulawayo, Pakistan will be looking to capitalize on their reputation for strong bowling and pace to take down Zimbabwe's batting order. 

Zimbabwe has its own pace-heavy attack, but Pakistan might blend their options with a mix of pace and spin. With their batters and bowlers in good shape, the Men in Green seem to be in a strong position heading into this series.

Let’s take a closer look at which Pakistani players could be important in the T20I series against Zimbabwe.

3 Key Pakistan Players For T20I Series Against Zimbabwe

Haris Rauf

Haris Rauf recently made headlines during the ODI series against Australia, where he was named Player of the Series after taking 10 wickets in three matches. His momentum carried into the T20I series, highlighted by an impressive 4/22 in the second match, showcasing his ability to dominate with pace.

In the ODI series against Zimbabwe, Rauf continued to make his mark, grabbing 2 wickets in the third ODI while conceding just 34 runs in seven overs. With an ability to bowl at over 145 kph, he’s a crucial asset for Pakistan's bowling lineup. Across his T20I career, Rauf has bagged 107 wickets at an economy rate of 8.17 in 75 matches, solidifying his reputation as a disciplined bowler.

Saim Ayub

On the recent tour of Australia, Saim Ayub had a mixed bag. He managed a solid 82 runs in the second ODI, but overall, his impact was limited. However, he really shone against Zimbabwe, scoring an unbeaten 113 in the second ODI while partnering effectively with Abdullah Shafique. Additionally, he showcased his all-round capabilities by taking two wickets in the third ODI.

At just 22 years old, the top-order batter has the potential to be a key player for Pakistan, particularly as they prepare for future T20Is. So far, he’s accumulated 309 runs in 23 T20I matches, boasting a strike rate of 122.13.

Abrar Ahmed

Debuting in ODIs during the Zimbabwe series, 26-year-old spinner Abrar Ahmed caught attention with his performance, taking 4 wickets for 33 runs across 8 overs in the second ODI. He followed up his debut with another solid performance, claiming 2 wickets in the third ODI.

Abrar’s T20I experience is still developing, but in his 3 matches, he has taken 2 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 5.75. As Pakistan gears up for the Champions Trophy, this young spinner could prove to be a valuable addition to the bowling squad.