The second T20I of Afghanistan Vs Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club in Harare, After a convincing victory in the series opener, Afghanistan will be aiming to wrap up the series 2-0, while Zimbabwe will look to regroup and deliver a stronger all-round performance to keep their hopes alive.
Team Preview
Afghanistan enter with high confidence after clinical victory in previous game, Their top order, spearheaded by Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, continues to provide stability and explosive starts. Zadran’s composed half-century in the first match was crucial in setting up a formidable total, while Omarzai and Shahidullah added finishing touches with aggressive cameos.
In bowling Rashid Khan lead the attack and complemented by Mujeeb Ur Rahman, pace department, led by Azmatullah omarzai, has also impressed with early breakthroughs and disciplined death bowling.
Zimbabwe’s opening match performance exposed familiar weaknesses — inconsistent top-order batting and lack of composure under pressure. Skipper Sikandar Raza remains the linchpin, contributing with both bat and ball. His leadership will be vital if Zimbabwe hope to level the series. Young talents such as Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, must step up to provide stability and power through the innings.
In the bowling department, Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava will be expected to deliver early wickets and contain runs during the powerplay. The spin duo of Ryan Brul Masakadza and Raza could be key in the middle overs.
Afghanistan Vs Zimbabwe Head to Head Records
Total Matches: 18
Afghanistan won : 16
Zimbabwe won : 2
No Results: 0
Pitch Report
The Harare Sports Club pitch has traditionally supported balanced contests between bat and ball. Early on, batters can expect good carry and bounce, while spinners are likely to find assistance in the middle overs as the surface wears down. A total in the range of 165–175 runs is considered competitive. Teams winning the toss are likely to bat first, as chasing under lights tends to get tricky.
Probable playing XIs
Afghanistan
Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sediquallah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Shahidullah Kamal , Rashid Khan(c), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fareed Ahmad, Abdullah Ahmdazi
Zimbabwe
Brian Bennett, Tadiwanshe Murumani, Brendon Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Brul, Dion Myers, Brad Evans, Richard Nagarva, Blessing Muzarabani, Wellington Masakadza , Tinotenda Maposa
Players to watch out
Rahmatullah Gurbaz
Azmatullah Omarzai
Rashid Khan
Brian Bennett
Sikandar Raza
Richard Nagarva
Prediction
Afghanistan head into this encounter as clear favourites. Their batting depth, spin prowess, and recent consistency make them a tough side to beat. Zimbabwe will need a collective effort — early wickets from their pacers, a solid powerplay with the bat.