The first T20I between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan kicked off at the Harare Sports Club, setting the stage for an intense battle in the ongoing battle Afghanistan tour through Zimbabwe. Batting first, Afghanistan posted a formidable total of 180/6 in their 20 overs, thanks to a thrilling innings of opener Ibrahim Zadran and valuable contributions from others. Zimbabwe’s chase was shattered by the brilliant spin bowling of Mujeeb Ur Rahmanwhose devastating spell dismantled the hosts’ batting line-up, leading Afghanistan to an emphatic 53-run win.
Ibrahim Zadran’s blaster sets up a strong total for Afghanistan
Afghanistan’s innings got off to a flying start with the opening pair Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Zadran laid a strong foundation. Zadran was particularly impressive, scoring a quick 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 tight bowling from Zimbabwe Sikandar Raza And Bless MuzarabaniAfghanistan managed to maintain a healthy scoring rate of around nine runs per over. Middle order batters like Sediqullah Atal And Azmatullah Omarzai useful series of 25 and 27 respectively added, while Shahidullah Kamal and captain Rashid Khan ended the innings in style, helping Afghanistan post a challenging 180/6.
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Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s wizardry crushes Zimbabwe’s pursuit
Chasing 181, Zimbabwe started their innings under pressure, with Afghanistan’s Mujeeb capitalizing quickly. Mujeeb bowled a devastating 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, leading to a collapse early in the chase. Mujeeb removed key hitters, among other things Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brendan Taylorand the dangerous Brad Evans crippling Zimbabwe’s hopes.
Zimbabwe struggled to build meaningful partnerships as wickets tumbled regularly. Despite efforts by Tony Munyoga (20 runs) and Thank you Maposa (32 runs), no one could anchor the innings effectively. Zimbabwe were eventually bowled out for 127 in 16.1 overs, falling 53 runs short.
Mujeeb’s spell tilted the game decisively in Afghanistan’s favor as he exploited the circumstances masterfully. Together with good support from Omarzai and the spin duo of Rashid Khan and Shahidullah sealed a comprehensive victory for Afghanistan in the series opener.
Afghanistan got the better of Zimbabwe in the first T20I 🔥💪#ZIMvAFG pic.twitter.com/Fx1xQimq3E
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) October 29, 2025
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