Afghanistan is set to embark on a dynamic tour of Zimbabwe spanning December and January, promising an exhilarating multi-format series. The action kicks off with a trio of T20 internationals scheduled to unfold at the iconic Harare Sports Club from December 9 to 12. Following closely, the two nations will clash in a three-match ODI series, also hosted at the Harare Sports Club, taking place from December 15 to 19.
But wait, the excitement doesn’t stop there! The picturesque city of Bulawayo will step into the spotlight on December 26, welcoming the much-anticipated Boxing Day Test—a momentous occasion, as it marks the first time this classic fixture occurs in Zimbabwe in almost three decades. And if that wasn’t enough to capture the imagination, Bulawayo will also host an historic New Year’s Test beginning on January 2, an inaugural event for Zimbabwe.
In their past encounters, the two cricketing nations faced off in Abu Dhabi back in March 2021, where they showcased their competitive spirit in two gripping Test matches. Zimbabwe claimed victory in the first match by a decisive 10 wickets, only for Afghanistan to bounce back, snatching a six-wicket win in the rematch.
When it comes to One Day Internationals, Afghanistan has maintained a marked advantage over Zimbabwe, claiming victory in 18 of their 28 matchups. The rise of Afghan cricket has been nothing short of spectacular, particularly since January 2023, when they captured the spotlight by reaching the semi-finals of the Men’s T20 World Cup. Their recent performance also includes a commendable 2-1 series triumph over South Africa.
On the flip side, Zimbabwe has been making waves too, recently etching their name in the record books with an astonishing T20I score of 344 for four against Gambia, marking the highest total ever achieved in the format.
Schedule for Afghanistan’s Tour of Zimbabwe:
T20I Series
- December 9, 2024: 1st T20I, Harare Sports Club
- December 11, 2024: 2nd T20I, Harare Sports Club
- December 12, 2024: 3rd T20I, Harare Sports Club
ODI Series
- December 15, 2024: 1st ODI, Harare Sports Club
- December 17, 2024: 2nd ODI, Harare Sports Club
- December 19, 2024: 3rd ODI, Harare Sports Club
Test Series
- December 26-30, 2024: 1st Test, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
- January 2-6, 2025: 2nd Test, Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
As the anticipation builds, fans from both nations eagerly await this thrilling clash of cricketing titans!
