Cricket Highlights, December 19: Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe (2nd ODI) – Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan

Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan (2nd ODI) – Highlights

In this article, we will discuss the second ODI of the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan, held on December 19, 2024, at Harare. Afghanistan displayed a dominant performance to secure a convincing 232-run victory over the hosts. Their innings was marked by disciplined batting, with key contributions from their top-order batters, culminating in a competitive total of 286/6.

ZIM, in response, faltered significantly under the pressure of AFG bowling attack, managing only 54 runs in 17.5 overs. This emphatic win highlighted Afghanistan’s growing prowess in limited-overs cricket while exposing Zimbabwe’s struggles with both bat and ball. The match served as a clear testament to Afghanistan’s dominance and their continued rise in international cricket.

Sediqullah Atal and Abdul Malik orchestrated an impressive 191-run opening partnership, with Atal scoring a measured 104 off 128 balls, including 8 fours and 4 sixes, while Malik contributed a solid 84 off 101 balls. Both batsmen displayed excellent technique and temperament, anchoring the innings and neutralizing Zimbabwe’s bowling attack effectively.

ZIM managed to pull things back slightly in the latter stages with Newman Nyamhuri claiming 3 wickets, including the dismissals of both openers. However, a late flourish from Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Nabi ensured AFG reached a competitive total. Ghulam’s quickfire 63 off 32 balls was a standout cameo that added crucial momentum. Contributions from Hashmatullah Shahidi (29*) and a 40-run extras tally further bolstered Afghanistan’s total.

In response, Zimbabwe’s batting lineup collapsed under the relentless pressure of Afghanistan’s bowling unit. Fazalhaq Farooqi struck early, removing Zimbabwe’s captain Craig Ervine and opener Tadiwanashe Marumani. Their struggles continued as Azmatullah Omarzai dismissed Dion Myers, leaving Zimbabwe reeling at 5/3 within the powerplay. Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza attempted to rebuild the innings, but Williams fell to AM Ghazanfar after a brief resistance.

Raza, the only Zimbabwean batsman to show some resilience, remained unbeaten on 19, but he lacked support from the other end. Ghazanfar and Naveed Zadran were the chief destroyers in the middle and lower orders, taking 3 wickets each. Ghazanfar was particularly effective with his leg spin, registering figures of 3.5-2-9-3, while Zadran’s pace accounted for key dismissals, finishing with 3/13.

Zimbabwe’s innings was wrapped up for a paltry 54 in just 17.5 overs, marking one of their most dismal performances in recent history. The Afghan bowlers, backed by exceptional fielding, delivered a clinical performance. The stark contrast between the two teams highlighted Afghanistan’s superior skill and execution.

This 232-run victory underlined Afghanistan’s growing dominance in international cricket, while Zimbabwe’s continued struggles with both bat and ball painted a concerning picture for their future. The match served as a testament to Afghanistan’s all-round capabilities and a benchmark for their aspirations in ODI cricket.

Also read: Cricket Highlights, Dec 17: Bangladesh tour of West Indies 2024 (2nd T20)

Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Scoreboard

Afghanistan – 286/6

Zimbabwe – 54(17.5/50)

Result – Afghanistan won by 232 runs

Player of the Match – Sediqullah Atal

ZIM vs. AFG Playing Eleven

Afghanistan

Sediqullah Atal, Abdul Malik, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi(C), Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil(WK), Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Naveed Zadran

Zimbabwe

Ben Curran, Tadiwanashe Marumani(WK), Dion Myers, Craig Ervine(C), Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Brian Bennett, Newman Nyamhuri, Richard Ngarava, Trevor Gwandu, Tinotenda Maposa

Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.

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