Afghanistan will tour Zimbabwe for a multi-format series including three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests, with the Boxing Day Test marking a significant milestone for Zimbabwean cricket, the first at home in 28 years. The series will take place from December 9, 2024, to January 6, 2025, featuring matches in Harare and Bulawayo. Historically, Afghanistan leads in ODIs and T20Is, while the Test record is evenly matched.
Afghanistan is set to embark on a multi-format tour to Zimbabwe, marking a significant occasion in Zimbabwean cricket. This tour will consist of a series of matches across all three formats: T20s, ODIs, and Tests. The tour is scheduled to kick off with a three-match T20 International series in Harare from December 9 to December 12, 2024. Following the T20 series, the teams will engage in a three-match One Day International series, taking place from December 15 to December 19, 2024, also at Harare Sports Club. Subsequently, the cricketing action will transition to Bulawayo, where the two teams will contest a two-match Test series. Notably, the first Test will be staged as a Boxing Day Test from December 26 to December 30, 2024, which will be Zimbabwe’s first Boxing Day Test at home in 28 years. The second Test is set to occur from January 2 to January 6, 2025. Historically, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe hold an equal record in Test matches, each having secured one victory in their two encounters. However, in terms of One Day Internationals, Afghanistan possesses a distinct advantage, having won 18 of the 28 matches played between the two nations. Furthermore, Afghanistan has demonstrated formidable prowess in the T20 format, claiming 14 victories out of 15 matches against Zimbabwe. Schedule: – T20I Series 9 December 2024: 1st T20I – Harare Sports Club 11 December 2024: 2nd T20I – Harare Sports Club 12 December 2024: 3rd T20I – Harare Sports Club – ODI Series 15 December 2024: 1st ODI – Harare Sports Club 17 December 2024: 2nd ODI – Harare Sports Club 19 December 2024: 3rd ODI – Harare Sports Club – Test Series 26-30 December 2024: 1st Test – Queens Sports Club 2-6 January 2025: 2nd Test – Queens Sports Club
In recent years, Afghanistan has emerged as a competitive force in international cricket, particularly in the shorter formats of the game. Their upcoming tour to Zimbabwe is historic, as it includes a Boxing Day Test, a rarity in Zimbabwean cricket and a first for the country in nearly three decades. Besides providing both teams with valuable experience, this tour highlights Afghanistan’s growing stature in the sport and the increasing significance of cricket in Zimbabwe, a country that has faced its share of challenges in the cricketing landscape. The competitive nature of this tour is underscored by the closely balanced records between the two sides, particularly in limited-overs cricket.
In conclusion, the imminent tour of Zimbabwe by Afghanistan promises to be a captivating series of matches that underscores the growing rivalry between the two nations. With the introduction of significant fixtures such as the Boxing Day Test and a T20 series, both teams will have the opportunity to showcase their cricketing prowess. The historical context of both teams’ performances adds an intriguing layer to the competition, setting the stage for a thrilling display of international cricket.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
