Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe
Afghanistan and Zimbabwe faced off in a three-match ODI series, with the first match taking place on June 10, 2023. The series was part of the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League, which serves as a qualification pathway for the 2023 Cricket World Cup.
Match 1
In the first match, Afghanistan batted first and posted a challenging total of 276 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. Hashmatullah Shahidi led the way with a brilliant century, scoring 114 runs off 122 deliveries. He received support from Najibullah Zadran, who contributed 54 runs down the order.
Zimbabwe’s chase got off to a solid start, with Sean Williams scoring a half-century. However, they could not maintain the momentum as Afghanistan’s bowlers stepped up and restricted them to 217 runs, securing a comfortable 59-run victory. Rashid Khan was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 wickets for 42 runs.
Match 2
In the second match, Zimbabwe opted to bat first and set a target of 248 runs for Afghanistan. Sikandar Raza was the star performer with the bat, scoring 81 runs off 90 deliveries.
Afghanistan’s chase was led by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who played an aggressive knock of 73 runs off 61 balls. However, their batting lineup collapsed in the middle overs as Zimbabwe’s bowlers fought back. Tendai Chatara picked up 4 wickets for 40 runs, while Victor Nyauchi and Blessing Muzarabani also chipped in with crucial wickets.
Ultimately, Zimbabwe managed to defend their total and secure a thrilling 13-run victory, leveling the series 1-1.
Match 3
In the series decider, Afghanistan once again elected to bat first. They posted a formidable total of 304 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. Najibullah Zadran top-scored with 78 runs, while Rahmat Shah and Mohammad Nabi also made valuable contributions.
Zimbabwe’s chase was off to a positive start, with openers Tadiwanashe Marumani and Takudzwanashe Kaitano putting on a 100-run partnership. However, Afghanistan’s bowlers fought back, led by Rashid Khan’s exceptional spell of 4 wickets for 43 runs.
Despite a valiant effort from Sikandar Raza, who scored 60 runs off 44 balls, Zimbabwe fell short of the target by 44 runs. Afghanistan sealed the series with a 2-1 victory.
Conclusion
The Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe ODI series was a closely contested affair, with both teams displaying moments of brilliance. Afghanistan’s strong batting lineup and Rashid Khan’s exceptional bowling proved to be the decisive factors in their series victory.
For Zimbabwe, Sikandar Raza emerged as a key player with his consistent performances throughout the series. The team’s ability to bounce back and win the second match after losing the first showcased their resilience and determination.
Overall, the series provided valuable experience for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup Super League matches.
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