Zimbabwe to host Afghanistan in historic Test series starting Thursday

Zimbabwe and Afghanistan are set to face off in a highly anticipated two-match Test series, starting Thursday, December 26. The first Test will run until December 30, followed by the second Test from January 2 to January 6. Both matches will be held at the iconic Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, making this series a significant milestone for Zimbabwean cricket.

This series is historic for Zimbabwe as it marks their first Boxing Day Test at home in 28 years. The last such occasion was in 1996 against England in Harare, which ended in a rain-affected draw. Adding to the momentous occasion, the second Test will be Zimbabwe’s first-ever New Year’s Test, both domestically and internationally.

Afghanistan enters the series with confidence, having already secured the T20I series 2-1 and sweeping the ODI series 2-0. Their dominance in the limited-overs formats sets the stage for a competitive battle in the longer format. A significant highlight for the visitors is the return of Rashid Khan to the Test setup after nearly four years. His presence is expected to provide a substantial boost to Afghanistan, particularly with his ability to exploit conditions and trouble the opposition with his world-class spin bowling.

Both teams have opted for a mix of seasoned players and fresh talent, naming squads featuring seven uncapped players each. For Zimbabwe, the inclusion of Ben Curran, brother of England internationals Sam and Tom Curran, adds an exciting dimension. Curran’s selection brings a sense of anticipation as he prepares to make his debut in Test cricket.

Afghanistan, on the other hand, will rely on its experienced core while giving opportunities to emerging talents. The team will look to balance the exuberance of youth with the steady guidance of senior players like Rashid Khan and Rahmat Shah.

The picturesque Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo will provide a fitting backdrop for the series. Known for its lively crowd and cricket-friendly atmosphere, the venue is expected to witness closely contested games.

Also See: Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe (AFG vs ZIM) Series Schedule, Upcoming Matches and Timing

Zimbabwe squad: Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Dion Myers, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Brandon Mavuta, Johnathan Campbell, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Joylord Gumbie, Nyasha Mayavo, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri, Richard Ngarava, Takudzwa Chataira, Trevor Gwandu

Afghanistan squad: Abdul Malik, Bahir Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Riaz Hassan, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Azmatullah Omarzai, Ismat Alam, Afsar Zazai, Ikram Alikhil, Bashir Ahmad, Fareed Ahmad, Naveed Zadran, Rashid Khan, Yamin Ahmadzai, Zahir Khan, Zahir Shehzad, Zia-ur-Rehman.