ZIM vs AFG 2nd ODI Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today’s 2nd ODI Match Between Zimbabwe And Afghanistan?

ZIM vs AFG 2nd ODI Match Prediction [Source: @ACBofficials/x.com]

The rain gods had the final say in the first ODI, leaving both Zimbabwe and Afghanistan itching to make their mark in the second match at the Harare Sports Club on Thursday, December 19. With the series on the line, both teams will be looking to leave no stone unturned in this must-win clash.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has been blowing hot and cold in recent times. A stunning win against Pakistan last month raised hopes, but a 1-2 series loss followed by a tough outing in Sri Lanka earlier this year has put the spotlight back on their inconsistency.

The first ODI was a forgettable one for Zimbabwe’s batters, with the top order collapsing like a house of cards. Ben Curran, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brian Bennett, Dion Myers, and Sean Williams all fell cheaply, leaving the team in dire straits at 44/5 in under 10 overs before rain came in.

Skipper Craig Ervine will be hoping his batters can pull their socks up and deliver a much-improved performance. With players like Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl in the ranks, Zimbabwe has the firepower to challenge Afghanistan, especially on home turf.

Afghanistan

For Afghanistan, the series is another opportunity to stamp their authority in ODIs. Fresh off 2-1 series wins against South Africa and Bangladesh, the visitors are brimming with confidence.

The road to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is long, but Afghanistan will be determined to fine-tune their game along the way. Under the leadership of Hashmatullah Shahidi, and with stalwarts like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, and Fazalhaq Farooqi, Afghanistan has the balance to dominate.

Their fast bowling unit led by Fazalhaq Farooqi and Azmatullah Omarzai will relish the pace and bounce on offer in Harare, while their spinners are more than capable of choking Zimbabwe in the middle overs.

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ZIM vs AFG Head-to-Head Records in ODIs

How Will The Harare Sports Club Pitch Behave?

The Harare pitch showed its true colours in the first ODI and it’s no featherbed. While the fast bowlers will enjoy the early movement, spinners are likely to come into play as the innings progresses. The average first innings total has dropped to 212 in the last five matches, which means it is a tough surface for batters. Winning the toss and bowling first could be the ideal strategy for both captains.

Players To Watch Out For In ZIM vs AFG 2nd ODI

Zimbabwe

Joylord Gumbie

Joylord Gumbie has scored 189 runs in his last 8 matches at an average of 23.63 and a strike rate of 65.17. His steady approach provides stability to Zimbabwe's batting lineup in challenging conditions.

Craig Ervine

Craig Ervine has amassed 158 runs in his last 7 matches at an average of 26.33 and a strike rate of 70.22. His experience and ability to hold the innings together make him a key player for Zimbabwe.

Richard Ngarava

Richard Ngarava has taken 11 wickets in his last 7 matches with an economy of 4.89 and a strike rate of 25. His ability to deliver in key moments makes him a dependable bowler for Zimbabwe.

Blessing Muzarabani

Blessing Muzarabani has snagged 9 wickets in 8 matches at an economy of 4.83 and a strike rate of 42. His height and bounce make him a constant threat to opposition batters.

Afghanistan

Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been in red-hot form, having scored 522 runs in his last 9 matches at an impressive average of 58 and a strike rate of 91.73. His aggressive starts at the top of the order will be crucial for Afghanistan.

Azmatullah Omarzai

Azmatullah Omarzai has notched up 260 runs in his last 10 matches at an excellent average of 43.33 and a strike rate of 100.38. His ability to contribute in the middle order with composed innings makes him a valuable asset for Afghanistan.

AM Ghazanfar

AM Ghazanfar has picked up 13 wickets in the last 9 matches with an impressive economy of 4.3 and a strike rate of 26.07. His accuracy and control have made him a key bowler for Afghanistan.

Rashid Khan

Rashid Khan has been sensational as he has grabbed 12 wickets in 5 matches at a stellar economy of 3.27 and a strike rate of 22.75. His world-class leg-spin will be a massive weapon for Afghanistan in the upcoming game,

Today's Match Prediction: ZIM vs AFG 2nd ODI

Predicted Top Performers

Zimbabwe – Craig Ervine, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani
Afghanistan – Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan

ZIM vs AFG 2nd ODI: Predicted Score

Predicted first innings score: 210-230
Predicted second innings score: 215-235

Predicted Result: The toss will play a big role and the team bowling first will likely have an upper hand in this match.

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