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The first T20I between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan kicked off at the Harare Sports Club, setting the stage for an intense battle in the ongoing Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe. Afghanistan, batting first, posted a formidable total of 180/6 in their 20 overs, thanks to a blistering innings by opener Ibrahim Zadran and valuable contributions from others. Zimbabwe’s chase was shattered by the brilliant spin bowling of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, whose devastating spell dismantled the hosts’ batting lineup, leading Afghanistan to an emphatic 53-run victory.
Ibrahim Zadran’s blaster sets up strong total for Afghanistan
Afghanistan’s innings got off to a flying start with the opening pair Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Zadran putting on a strong foundation. Zadran was particularly impressive, carving out a rapid 52 runs off just 33 balls with six fours and a six, showcasing his aggressive strokeplay and ability to dominate the Zimbabwean bowling attack early on. The pair’s partnership amassed 76 runs before the first wicket fell, setting the tone for a competitive total.
Despite losing wickets at regular intervals due to some tight bowling from Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza and Blessing Muzarabani, Afghanistan managed to keep up a healthy scoring rate around nine runs per over. Middle-order batters like Sediqullah Atal and Azmatullah Omarzai added useful runs of 25 and 27 respectively, while Shahidullah Kamal and captain Rashid Khan finished the innings in style, helping Afghanistan post a challenging 180/6.
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Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s spin wizardry crushes Zimbabwe’s chase
Chasing 181, Zimbabwe started their innings under pressure, and Afghanistan’s Mujeeb was quick to capitalize. Mujeeb bowled a destructive spell, claiming four crucial wickets for just 20 runs in 3 overs at an economy of 6.66. His magical spin and sharp variations proved too difficult for Zimbabwe’s batters, triggering a collapse early in the chase. Mujeeb removed key batters including Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brendan Taylor, and the dangerous Brad Evans, crippling Zimbabwe’s hopes.
Zimbabwe struggled to build any meaningful partnerships as wickets tumbled regularly. Despite fighting efforts from Tony Munyonga (20 runs) and Tinotenda Maposa (32 runs), none could anchor the innings effectively. Zimbabwe was eventually bowled out for 127 in 16.1 overs, falling short by 53 runs.
Mujeeb’s spell tilted the game decisively in Afghanistan’s favor as he exploited the conditions masterfully. Along with good support from Omarzai and the spin duo of Rashid Khan and Shahidullah, Afghanistan sealed a comprehensive win in the series opener.
Afghanistan got the better of Zimbabwe in the first T20I 🔥💪
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