Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan: The stage is set for a thrilling decider between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan in the third and final T20I of the series. Both teams have displayed contrasting strengths in the first two matches, making this clash a must-watch encounter. Zimbabwe secured a nail-biting 4-wicket win in the opener, but Afghanistan bounced back dominantly with a 50-run victory in the second game.

Head-to-Head

• Total Matches: 17
• Zimbabwe Wins: 2
• Afghanistan Wins: 15
• Win Percentage: Afghanistan 88.24%, Zimbabwe 11.76%

Pitch Report

The Harare Sports Club pitch is known for being dry and slow, offering assistance to bowlers who utilize variations effectively. Pacers focusing on hard lengths are often rewarded, while spinners thrive on the turn available. Batting becomes challenging as the ball doesn’t come easily onto the bat, making stroke play tricky. Historically, chasing has been the preferred option at this venue.

Last 5 Meetings

1. 13 Dec 2024: Afghanistan won by 50 runs
2. 11 Dec 2024: Zimbabwe won by 4 wickets
3. 14 Jun 2022: Afghanistan won by 35 runs
4. 12 Jun 2022: Afghanistan won by 21 runs
5. 11 Jun 2022: Afghanistan won by 6 wickets

Form Guide (Last 5 Matches)

Zimbabwe: L, L, W, W, L

Afghanistan: W, W, L, L, W

Key Players to Watch

Zimbabwe

• Sikandar Raza: Leading with both bat and ball, Raza’s all-around performance is vital for Zimbabwe’s success.
• Brian Bennett: A promising batter, he has delivered crucial runs under pressure.
• Richard Ngarava: A disciplined bowler with a knack for breakthroughs in key moments.

Afghanistan

• Rashid Khan: The spin maestro is lethal on slow surfaces, leading the bowling attack with precision.
• Rahmanullah Gurbaz: A reliable batter capable of anchoring innings or attacking when needed.
• Naveen-ul-Haq: His death-bowling skills have been pivotal in restricting opponents.

Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Lineups

Zimbabwe:

1. Tadiwanashe Marumani
2. Dion Myers
3. Sikandar Raza
4. Brian Bennett
5. Ryan Burl
6. Wesley Madhevere
7. Trevor Gwandu
8. Wellington Masakadza
9. Blessing Muzarabani
10. Richard Ngarava
11. Tashinga Musekiwa

Afghanistan:

1. Sediqullah Atal
2. Darwish Rasooli
3. Gulbadin Naib
4. Zubaid Akbari
5. Mohammad Nabi
6. Azmatullah Omarzai
7. Rashid Khan
8. Rahmanullah Gurbaz
9. Mujeeb Ur Rahman
10. Fareed Ahmad Malik
11. Naveen-ul-Haq

Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Prediction

While Zimbabwe has shown glimpses of brilliance, Afghanistan’s depth and experience give them the upper hand in the decider. Rashid Khan and Naveen-ul-Haq’s form, combined with Gurbaz’s consistency, make Afghanistan the favorites. However, if Sikandar Raza shines, Zimbabwe could spring a surprise.

Predicted Winner: Afghanistan by a narrow margin.

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