PAK vs ZIM 2nd ODI: Queens Sports Club Bulawayo Pitch Report

Debashis Sarangi

Queens Sports Club Bulawayo [Source: @ZimCricketv/X]Queens Sports Club Bulawayo [Source: @ZimCricketv/X]

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On Tuesday, Pakistan will face Zimbabwe in the second One-Day International of the ongoing three-match series. Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan had a disastrous start to the series, losing the opening game by 80 runs (DLS method). Batting first, Zimbabwe posted 205 runs on the board, thanks to excellent knocks from Sikandar Raza and Richard Ngarava. 

In response, Pakistan suffered a batting collapse, losing six wickets for 60 runs before a rain-interruption paused the game. As the match couldn't be resumed, the hosts emerged victorious in the game by 80 runs via DLS method. So, the second ODI is a must-win affair for Pakistan as another loss will result in their series defeat. 

So, as both teams gear up to take on each other, let's see how the surface at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo will behave throughout the contest. 

Queens Sports Club Bulawayo Stats And Records In ODIs

Criterion
Data
Matches Played93
Matches won batting first39
Matches won batting second49
Average first innings score234
Average second innings score198


Queens Sports Club Bulawayo Pitch Report: Is it batting or bowling friendly?

The surface at Queens Sports Club Bulawayo favoured the bowlers in the first ODI, as batters from both sides struggled to score runs. Statistically, only 265 runs were scored in 61.2 overs across both innings at a modest run rate of 4.32. So, expect the bowlers from both sides to play key roles once again. 

There could be a hint of seam movement for the fast bowlers early on with the new ball, with the wicket getting slightly better to bat as the game progresses. The spinners will get some turn off the surface, particularly in the latter half of the game. Considering the venue's track record, the toss-winner will likely bowl first. 

Players To Watch Out For At Queens Sports Club Bulawayo

Sikandar Raza

  • Sikandar Raza is an experienced Zimbabwean all-rounder and can play a handy role for the Chevrons in this match. 
  • The veteran cricketer showcased his all-round attributes in the first ODI, scoring 39 runs and scalping two crucial wickets. 

Faisal Akram

  • The left-arm wrist spinner oozed his class with the ball, scalping three wickets in the first ODI at this venue. 
  • Considering the track will offer some turn, we reckon Akram can be a crucial player for Pakistan in the middle overs. 

Blessing Muzarabani

  • Zimbabwe's experienced pacer Blessing Muzarabani was exceptional with the ball in the first ODI, recording clinical figures of two for nine in five overs. 
  • Considering he can make the new ball talk at a decent pace, expect Muzarabani to trouble the Pakistani batters, especially in the powerplay.