Zimbabwe is set to host Afghanistan In the opening Test of the two-match series at the Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, starting on 26 December 2024. The game holds special significance as it marks Zimbabwe’s first home Boxing Day Test in nearly three decades. The hosts are determined to make the occasion memorable by putting up a strong performance, especially after their recent struggles in white-ball formats.
Afghanistan’s dominance in limited-overs formats against Zimbabwe
Afghanistan come to Bulawayo with momentum on their side, having excelled in both the T20I and ODI series against Zimbabwe. Their team wins – 2-1 sweep in T20Is and 2-0 sweep in ODIs – highlighted their strengths in shorter formats. However, the transition to Test cricket presents a new challenge that requires more patience and a change in strategy to continue the winning streak.
Challenges in red ball cricket
Both Zimbabwe and Afghanistan face the challenge of getting into the Test arena after long absences. Zimbabwe last played a test match in July 2024 where they lost Ireland. This series gives them a chance to regroup and regain their footing in red ball cricket. Their most recent Test match for Afghanistan – a scheduled match against New Zealand In September 2024 – it was canceled without a game, similarly depriving them of Test match experience.
Also READ: Zimbabwe selects 7-man squad for Afghanistan Tests
Bulawayo Weather Forecast
Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected in Bulawayo from Thursday to Monday ahead of the upcoming Test match between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan. Thursday starts with light rain (26°C/18°C, moderate precipitation, high humidity). Friday brings scattered thunderstorms (26°C/18°C) and a high chance of rain and humidity. Severe thunderstorms (27°C/18°C), strong winds and heavy rain are expected on Saturday. Sunday (24°C/19°C) and Monday (26°C/18°C) are dominated by persistent rain, keeping humidity high and conditions challenging for cricket.
Day by Day Weather Section
on Thursday
- The situation: Light Rain
- Temperature: High 26°C, Low 18°C
- Rain: Medium
- Humidity: High
Friday
- The situation: Scattered Thunderstorms
- Temperature: High 26°C, Low 18°C
- Rain: Probability
- Humidity: High
Saturday
- The situation: Strong thunderstorms
- Temperature: High 27°C, Low 18°C
- Rain: Heavy
- Humidity: Very high
on sunday
- The situation: Rain
- Temperature: High 24°C, Low 19°C
- Rain: Consecutive
- Humidity: High
on monday
- The situation: Rain
- Temperature: High 26°C, Low 18°C
- Rain: Consecutive
- Humidity: High
