Afghanistan opened their three match T20I series against Zimbabwe with an impressive 37 run victory in Sharjah, thanks to outstanding contributions from Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai, Rashid Khan and a disciplined bowling attack.
After a difficult beginning, Afghanistan recovered to post 177 runs before dismissing Zimbabwe for 140. The result extended Afghanistan’s impressive T20I record against Zimbabwe to 20 victories from 22 encounters.
Zimbabwe initially controlled proceedings with an effective bowling performance. Brad Evans removed captain Ibrahim Zadran early, while debutant Ernest Masuku dismissed Sediqullah Atal and Mohammad Akram. Afghanistan continued losing wickets and eventually slipped to 66 for 5 during the 12th over.
However, Ahmadzai transformed the innings with aggressive strokeplay, reaching his half century from just 20 deliveries. Alongside Shahidullah, who contributed 46 from 42 balls, he established a crucial 61 run partnership in 4.5 overs.
Rashid Khan then delivered an extraordinary finishing performance, smashing 30 from only 10 deliveries, including four sixes and one boundary. Despite Newman Nyamhuri claiming 4 for 31, Afghanistan finished with a competitive total.
Zimbabwe faced immediate difficulties during their pursuit as Afghanistan’s bowlers maintained excellent control on a challenging surface.
Fazalhaq Farooqi removed Ben Curran in the third over, restricting Zimbabwe to 38 for 1 after six overs. Rashid subsequently dismissed Innocent Kaia with a cleverly disguised googly, further weakening Zimbabwe’s batting resistance.
The Afghan captain finished with impressive figures of 2 for 20, ensuring Zimbabwe never gained sufficient momentum to threaten the target.
Ultimately, Afghanistan’s recovery with the bat and intelligent bowling secured a convincing opening victory, providing valuable confidence ahead of the remaining two matches in the series.
