Last week, Afghanistan’s morale was shattered by a humiliating loss in the first Test against Zimbabwe at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium. In both innings, the Asghar Afghan-led team struggled to get going with the bat. No other Afghan batsman scored a half-century in the game except Ibrahim Zadran.
This week, the two teams will clash once more at the same venue. Afghanistan will be eager to get back on track and tie the series. Zimbabwe will be hoping to keep the momentum going and complete a clean sweep of the two-match series.
Weather
The weather in Abu Dhabi will be hot and sunny, with temperatures in the high 20s. On Day 3, the temperature will rise to the mid-30s.
Pitch
According to Zimbabwean captain Sean Williams, the wicket in the first game aided the spinners from one end and the pacers from the other. Apart from Amir Hamza, no other spin bowler has had much success.
If the upcoming match is played on a track close to the first Test, the Zimbabwean team will have an advantage. After watching the previous game between these two teams, fans do not expect a high-scoring affair. Just two of the 14 Tests have been won by teams batting second.
Playing XIs:
Afghanistan
Asghar Afghan (c), Afsar Zazai (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Abdul Malik, Rahma Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Munir Ahmad, Rashid Khan, Zahir Khan, Hamza Hotak, Yamin Ahmadzai
Zimbabwe
Sean Williams (c), Regis Chakabva (wk), Prince Masvaure, Kevin Kasuza, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Wesley Madhevere, Tarisai Musakanda, Donald Tiripano, Blessing Muzarabani, Victor Nyauchi
Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Dream 11:
Sean Williams (c), Afsar Zazai (wk), Sikandar Raza, Rahmat Shah, Ibrahim Zadran, Asghar Afghan, Prince Masvaure, Rashid Khan, Hamza Hatok, Victor Nyauchi, Blessing Muzarabani
Prediction
Match winner
Zimbabwe
Winning the toss
Zimbabwe
Top Batsman
Rahmat Shah (Afghanistan), Sean Williams (Zimbabwe)
Top Bowler
Amir Hamza (Afghanistan), Blessing Muzarabani (Zimbabwe)
Most Sixes
Asghar Afghan (Afghanistan), Sean Williams (Zimbabwe)
Player of the Match
Blessing Muzarabani
Team Scores Batting First
Afghanistan 220+, Zimbabwe 260+
Zimbabwe will start the match as favourites mainly due to their previous victory margin. Although their performance was far from perfect, Zimbabwe will still be favourites for this week’s Test. Afghanistan is expected to improve, but Zimbabwe should have enough in the tank to win once more. Let’s support your favourite cricket team with baji.live now!
