Cricket returns to Pakistan
Pakistan celebrated international cricket's return after six years with a hard fought five-wicket win against Zimbabwe in the first Twenty20 international at a packed and security-tight Gaddafi Stadium on Friday.
The win doubled the joy for the hosts as the match brought international cricket home for the first time since attacks on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore in March 2009.
Strict security was in place with 4,000 policemen on duty, but that did not stop cricket-deprived fans from packing the 27,000 capacity stadium.
Pakistan opener Mukhtar Ahmed hit a maiden half century during his rapid 45-ball 83 to help Pakistan achieve their best Twenty chase in 19.3 overs and take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
Zimbabwe captain Elton Chigumbura hit eight boundaries and a six in his 35-ball knock during his career best 54 to lead Zimbabwe to an imposing 172-6 in their 20 overs after electing to bat.
Mukhtar, playing only his second international game, gave Pakistan a sound start with an opening stand of 142 with Ahmed Shehzad who made a 39-ball 55 with six boundaries and a six.
Mukhtar hit 12 fours and three sixes before he edged spinner Greame Cremer behind the wicket.
Shahid Afridi hit the winning runs, a boundary over the bowler, after a mini-collapse.
Sami, playing his first international match for three years, dismissed Raza to finish with 3-36.
The second Twenty20 will be played on Sunday in Lahore.
SCORES IN BRIEF
ZIMBABWE: 172 for six in 20 overs (Masakadza 43, Chigumbura 54; Sami 3-36 Riaz 2-38)
PAKISTAN: 173 for five in 19.3 overs (Mukhtar 83, Shehzad 55; Vitori 1-24, Cremer 2-28)
Man of the match: Mukhtar Ahmed
Result: Pakistan won by five wickets
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