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baji999 The Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe 2024-25 delivered yet another exhilarating cricketing spectacle as the third T20I took place on December 14th, 2024, at the Harare Sports Club. This pivotal match was the series decider, and it lived up to its billing as Afghanistan edged past Zimbabwe by three wickets in a nail-biting finish to claim the series 2-1.
Zimbabwe’s Gritty Batting Display
Zimbabwe batted first after winning the toss, aiming to put up a challenging total. However, the team struggled to capitalize on promising starts from their batters. Several players got into double digits but failed to convert these starts into significant contributions. Wesley Madhevere and Craig Ervine showed glimpses of brilliance but couldn’t build on their knocks. The standout moment for Zimbabwe was their last-wicket partnership of 21 runs, which ensured they crossed the 120-run mark. Eventually, Zimbabwe were bowled out for 127 runs in 19.5 overs, leaving their bowlers with a below-par total to defend.
Afghanistan Tour of Zimbabwe 2024-25: Afghanistan’s Early Setback
Chasing a modest target of 128, Afghanistan faced immediate trouble as Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani struck early in the powerplay. Afghanistan’s top-order crumbled under pressure, losing three key wickets within the first six overs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz looked promising during his short stay at the crease but was dismissed by a ball that stayed unexpectedly low, further complicating the visitors’ chase. At 44/4, Afghanistan’s chances looked slim.
Zimbabwe’s Spirited Comeback
Just when Afghanistan seemed to take control, Zimbabwe’s bowlers, particularly Sikandar Raza, stepped up. Raza’s quick wickets, including a brilliant caught-and-bowled to dismiss Azmatullah, kept Zimbabwe in the hunt. Trevor Gwandu and Blessing Muzarabani added to Afghanistan’s woes by bowling economical spells and applying pressure in the death overs. Afghanistan’s lower order found themselves in a precarious position, with 12 runs needed off the last two overs and seven wickets down.
Mohammad Nabi’s Calm Finish in Afghanistan Tour of Zimbabwe 2024-25
Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi held his nerve in the crunch moments. With his team requiring seven runs off the final over, Nabi struck a crucial boundary off Faraz Akram and followed it up with two runs that leveled the scores. A single off the third ball sealed the victory for Afghanistan with three deliveries to spare. Nabi’s unbeaten 20 off 17 balls showcased his experience and ability to handle high-pressure situations, proving to be the difference-maker.
Bowling Performances: Zimbabwe’s Positives
Zimbabwe’s bowling unit showed grit and determination despite defending a modest target. Blessing Muzarabani was outstanding with figures of 2 for 19 in his four overs, while Sikandar Raza’s 2 for 19 added a spin threat in the middle overs. Trevor Gwandu also impressed, taking 2 for 30, including the crucial wicket of Rashid Khan. However, the team conceded a staggering 15 extras, including several wides, which ultimately proved costly.
Azmatullah Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib Turn the Tide
baji999 Azmatullah Omarzai composed 34 runs under pressure, which were crucial in rescuing Afghanistan from a precarious position during their chase. At a critical juncture, the partnership between Azmatullah Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib proved to be the defining moment, stabilizing Afghanistan’s innings. Despite Zimbabwe’s bowlers, particularly Sikandar Raza and Blessing Muzarabani, consistently keeping the contest alive and pushing the game to the final over, Afghanistan remained resilient. Mohammad Nabi’s calm and calculated finish highlighted the importance of experience in pressure situations.
