ZIM vs AFG Match Prediction: Who Will Win Only Test? Afghanistan Tour of Zimbabwe 2025

Zimbabwe Set to Face Afghanistan in Only Test Match

Zimbabwe is gearing up to take on Afghanistan in the only Test match as part of Afghanistan’s tour of Zimbabwe in 2025. The game is scheduled to take place from October 20-24, 2025, at the Harare Sports Club in Harare, with a start time of 1:30 PM IST.

Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head Record

In the longest format of the game, Zimbabwe and Afghanistan have faced each other four times. Afghanistan holds the upper hand with two wins, while Zimbabwe has managed to secure just one victory. One match between the two teams ended in a draw.

Pitch Report and Conditions

The pitches in Zimbabwe are known to favor bowlers, whether they are spinners or pacers. Both teams will have to navigate challenging conditions, particularly in the first hour of play each day when the ball might offer some assistance to the bowlers. Batters will need to be watchful early on and capitalize once they are set.

Weather Outlook

Weather conditions for the match are expected to be relatively stable, with a slight chance of rain. The temperature is forecasted to range from a high of 33 degrees to a low of 13 degrees.

Probable Playing XIs

Zimbabwe Playing 11: Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Craig Ervine (c), Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza, Nick Welch, Tanunurwa Makoni, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava

Afghanistan Playing 11: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Bahir Shah, Abdul Malik, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Shahidullah Kamal, Ismat Alam, Zia Ur Rahman Akbar, Yamin Ahmadzai, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi, Khalil Gurbaz

Score Prediction

In the ZIM vs AFG Test match, the team batting first should aim for a score between 340-350 runs to put pressure on the opposition.

Players to Watch

Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Craig Ervine, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava

Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Yamin Ahmadzai, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi

Best Batsman and Bowler Predictions

For Zimbabwe, the spotlight will be on Brian Bennett and Ben Curran for the best batsman, while Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava are expected to shine as bowlers. In Afghanistan’s camp, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran are likely to lead the batting charge, with Yamin Ahmadzai and Zia Ur Rahman Sharif expected to make an impact with the ball.

Match Prediction

Zimbabwe enters the match as the favorite and is predicted to come out victorious in the only Test against Afghanistan.

As cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate this exciting clash between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan, all eyes will be on the players to see who will rise to the occasion and lead their respective teams to victory in this highly anticipated match.

Team Dynamics and Form

Heading into the Test match, Zimbabwe will be looking to build on their recent performances and continue their upward trajectory. With experienced players like Craig Ervine and Brendan Taylor in the lineup, Zimbabwe will be aiming to capitalize on their home advantage and put up a strong showing against Afghanistan. On the other hand, Afghanistan will be keen to make their mark and display their prowess in the longer format of the game. Led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, Afghanistan will be eager to prove themselves against a competitive side like Zimbabwe.

Key Strategies

Both teams will need to formulate strategic plans to tackle the challenges posed by the pitch conditions. Zimbabwe’s bowlers, including Blessing Muzarabani and Wellington Masakadza, will look to exploit the early assistance provided by the pitch and put pressure on Afghanistan’s batting lineup. Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s spinners, led by Shahidullah Kamal and Zia Ur Rahman Akbar, will be crucial in containing Zimbabwe’s batters and creating opportunities for breakthroughs.

Impact of Recent Performance

Recent form and performances leading up to the Test match will play a significant role in shaping the confidence and mindset of both teams. Zimbabwe’s series victories and competitive outings will give them a boost, while Afghanistan will draw inspiration from their past successes and aim to carry that momentum forward. The players’ individual form and contributions in recent matches will also be instrumental in determining their impact on the upcoming Test.

Emphasis on Player Fitness and Conditioning

Given the grueling nature of Test cricket, player fitness and conditioning will be paramount for both teams. The coaching and support staff will focus on ensuring that the players are in optimal physical and mental shape to endure the demands of a five-day game. Proper rest, nutrition, and recovery protocols will be essential in maintaining peak performance levels throughout the match.

Fan Engagement and Expectations

With cricket being a passion for fans in both Zimbabwe and Afghanistan, the Test match is expected to garner significant attention and support from enthusiasts. Fans will be eagerly anticipating the on-field action and looking forward to witnessing memorable performances from their favorite players. The atmosphere at the Harare Sports Club is likely to be electric, with supporters cheering on their respective teams and creating a vibrant cricketing ambiance.

Conclusion

As Zimbabwe prepares to face Afghanistan in the only Test match, the stage is set for a compelling and competitive cricketing encounter. With both teams aiming for victory and looking to showcase their skills on the international stage, the match promises to be a riveting spectacle for cricket fans worldwide. Stay tuned as Zimbabwe and Afghanistan lock horns in a battle of skill, strategy, and sheer determination.