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ZIM vs AFG 1st Test Match Prediction [Source: @Merovaeous, @ashwinravi99/x.com]
It’s time to switch gears and embrace the longest format as Zimbabwe and Afghanistan face off in the first Test of their two-match series at the Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, starting Thursday, December 26. After some intense white-ball action, both teams are set to test their patience and skills in the red-ball arena.
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is licking their wounds from the white-ball defeats and will look to hit the reset button in this format. The white-ball series didn’t go their way, but they have a chance to bounce back.
The Bulawayo pitch, known for its pace and bounce, might just be the perfect ally for their bowlers to rattle Afghanistan early.
Their batting lineup, however, needs to step up big time. The top order struggled in the shorter formats, and the Test series won’t be any easier. Skipper Craig Ervine has to lead from the front, and the rest of the batters need to bring their A-game if they want to post a competitive total.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan has been firing on all cylinders. They’ve already bagged the T20I and ODI series, and now they’re eyeing a red-ball triumph to end the tour on a high. Shahidi has marshalled his troops well, and they are not short on confidence heading into the Tests.
Spin will be their weapon of choice, with AM Ghazanfar, Zia-ur-Rehman, Zahir Khan ready to bamboozle Zimbabwe’s batters. But don’t sleep on their pacers— Fareed Ahmad Malik and Azmatullah Omarzai and company have the skill to exploit the lively conditions in Bulawayo.
In the batting department, Rahmat Shah, Shahidi, Sediqullah Atal will be key. If they can blunt the new ball and put up solid partnerships, Afghanistan will be in a commanding position.
ZIM vs AFG Head-To-Head Records In Tests
| Categories | Zimbabwe | Afghanistan |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 2 | 2 |
| Matches Won | 1 | 1 |
| Matches Lost | 1 | 1 |
| Draw | 0 | 0 |
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How Will The Queens Sports Club Pitch Behave?
The Queens Sports Club pitch is a bowler’s surface early on. It offers pace and bounce, making life tricky for batters in the initial overs. However, once the shine wears off, runs will flow for those who are willing to grind it out. The average first-innings score here is 308, which tells you there’s something for everyone. Interestingly, history favours teams batting second at this venue. Out of 25 Tests played here, 12 have been won by teams batting second. With such stats, the toss could be a game-changer. Don’t be surprised if the captain winning it chooses to bowl first and make the most of the conditions.
Players To Watch Out For In ZIM vs AFG 1st Test
Zimbabwe
Sean Williams
Sean Williams has been in sensational form as he has amassed 499 runs in the last 4 matches at an average of 99.8 and a strike rate of 60.85. His ability to anchor innings while maintaining a steady scoring rate makes him a key player for Zimbabwe.
Sikandar Raza
Sikandar Raza has contributed 311 runs in the last 4 matches at an average of 44.43 and a strike rate of 58.02. Known for his all-round capabilities, Raza plays will play a prominent role in Zimbabwe's middle order.
Blessing Muzarabani
Blessing Muzarabani has been outstanding as he has snagged 24 wickets in the last 6 matches with an economy of 2.85 and a strike rate of 46.54. His ability to generate bounce and movement makes him a constant threat to opposition batters.
Richard Ngarava
Richard Ngarava has also been effective with the ball as he has claimed 9 wickets in 5 Test matches with an economy of 3.65 and a strike rate of 86.7. His swing bowling will be key for Zimbabwe.
Afghanistan
Rahmat Shah
Rahmat Shah has amassed 578 runs in the last 9 matches at an average of 32.11 and a strike rate of 54.68. His consistency and ability to hold the innings together make him a vital cog in Afghanistan's batting lineup.
Hashmatullah Shahidi
Hashmatullah Shahidi has scored 485 runs in the last 8 matches at an average of 44.09 with a strike rate of 45.49. His composure under pressure and ability to play long innings will be crucial for Afghanistan's success.
AM Ghazanfar
AM Ghazanfar has been sensational in white-ball cricket and has made a name for himself. With Rashid Khan out of the first Test, the youngster is set to make his debut.
Yamin Ahmadzai
Yamin Ahmadzai has taken 13 wickets in the last 6 matches with an economy of 3.26 and a strike rate of 51.46. His disciplined bowling and ability to build pressure make him a key bowler for Afghanistan.
Today's Match Prediction: ZIM vs AFG 1st Test
Predicted Top Performers
Zimbabwe – Sean Williams, Sean Williams, Richard Ngarava
Afghanistan – Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, AM Ghazanfar
ZIM vs AFG 1st Test: Predicted Score
Predicted first innings score: 300-320
Predicted second innings score: 350-370
Predicted third innings score: 250-270
Predicted fourth innings score: 200-220
Predicted Result: The team bowling first will likely have an advantage in this match.
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