Zimbabwe is set to host Afghanistan for the three-match T20I series starting on December 11 at Harare Sports Club. under his leadership Sikandar RazaTeam Zimbabwe is aiming to bounce back after the recent 1-2 series defeat Pakistan. Afghanistan, on the other hand, enter the series against Zimbabwe with a strong record in T20Is, having won 14 out of 15 matches.
Zimbabwe’s recent form and challenges
Zimbabwe’s recent struggles were evident in their series against Pakistan where they faced significant challenges with batting order. They lost two matches by low scores but managed to chase down the target successfully in their last game. The team will need to improve their batting depth and find a reliable partnership to compete effectively with the formidable Afghanistan side.
Afghanistan’s strengths are competing
Afghanistan boasts of an all-round squad led by him Rashid Khan. Their bowling attack is particularly strong, as are the spinners Mujib Ur Rahman and Nur Ahmed along with pacers like Navin ul Haq. The batting lineup includes explosive players Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Hazratullah Zazaiwho can provide a fast start.
Also READ: Ben Curran got the first call-up as Zimbabwe announced their ODI and T20I squads for the Afghanistan series
Here is Zimbabwe’s top starting line-up for the T20I series against Afghanistan:
- Wessley Madhevere
Role: Opening dough
Strengths: Madhevere has solid technique and quick scoring ability which makes him a reliable goalkeeper. His ability to rotate the strike and find boundaries is essential to set a positive tone for the innings.
Impact: A strong start from Madhevere can provide a solid foundation for the team, allowing others to play their natural games.
- We found Marumani
Role: Opening dough
Strengths: Marumani is a new talent with good stroke selection and the ability to both control the pace and spin effectively. His aggressive batting style complements Madhevere’s approach.
Impact: His performance at the top can provide momentum and confidence to the batting line-up.
- Sikandar Raza (Captain)
Role: All-rounder / Middle-order Batter
Strengths: Raza is known for his aggressive batting and effective off-spin bowling. His experience in high-pressure situations makes him a key player in the middle order.
Impact: As a captain, he provides leadership and can stabilize the innings while accelerating the scoring when needed.
- Dion Myers
Role: Medium dough
Strengths: Myers is known for his explosive shooting style and ability to score quickly, especially in mid-range passes. He can adapt his game to different formats and conditions.
Impact: His ability to speed up the scoring could be vital, especially if early wickets fall.
- Ryan Burl
Role: All-rounder / Middle-order Batter
Strengths: Burl is versatile with both bat and ball, offering left-arm spin along with aggressive hitting capabilities. He is known for his innovative shots and ability to change games.
Impact: His contributions with the bat and ball make him a valuable asset who can change his pace at crucial stages.
- We wish you good health
Role: Goalkeeper/Batter
Strengths: Kaitano brings agility behind the stumps along with powerful batting skills, which can be crucial in finishing the innings strongly.
Impact: His role as a goalkeeper adds depth to the team, especially if late-game acceleration is required.
- Richard Shipp
Role: Fast Bowler
Strengths: Ngarava adds variety to Zimbabwe’s bowling attack with his pace and swing. He can be effective in both power plays and death plays.
Impact: The ability to take wickets and control runs at key stages of the game can be instrumental in restricting Afghanistan’s scoring.
- Wellington Masakadza
Role: Spin Bowler
Strengths: Masakadza’s left-arm orthodox spin adds depth to the bowling line-up, especially on pitches that favor spin bowlers. He is adept at controlling run rates during medium passes.
Impact: His ability to generate pressure can lead to crucial breakthroughs as batsmen look to accelerate.
- Thank you Mapos
Role: Fast medium bowler
Strengths: Maposa is known for his accuracy, particularly effective in executing yorkers in tight situations.
Impact: His role as a death bowler can help limit runs during Afghanistan’s final innings.
- Faraz Akram
Role: All-rounder / Low-grade Batter
Strengths: Akram’s all-around capabilities provide balance to the team; can contribute significantly with both bat and ball when called upon.
Impact: His potential as a finisher or reliable bowler adds depth to both the batting and bowling departments.
- Blessed Muzarabani
Role: Fast Bowler
Strengths: Muzarabani combines height with pace, making him a significant threat with both new and old balls. He is effective in scoring in crucial moments, especially on the power play.
Impact: His wicketkeeping ability can disrupt Afghanistan’s batting chart early and provide Zimbabwe with crucial breakthroughs.
