Afghanistan clinch series win vs Zimbabwe with 8-wicket triumph in 3rd ODI

Afghanistan clinched the 3-match ODI series 2-0 vs Zimbabwe. Allah Ghazanfar led the visitors to an 8-wicket win in the final ODI vs Zimbabwe.

In Short

• Afghanistan beat Zimbabwe by 8 wickets in 3rd ODI
• Allah Ghazanfar starred with his five-wicket haul
• This was Afghanistan's 6th consecutive white-ball series win

Afghanistan sealed the three-match ODI series 2-0 against Zimbabwe with back-to-back resounding victories after the first game was washed out. The visitors delivered another commanding performance in the final ODI, which showcased their dominance in all departments. The Afghanistan team registered their 6th consecutive white-ball series victory this year. Winning the toss, Afghanistan opted to bowl first and their decision paid off instantly. The bowlers struck early, reducing Zimbabwe to 38/3 in the power-play. The hosts showed little intent, which allowed Afghanistan to dictate terms. Zimbabwe's senior players, Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza, tried to stabilise the innings. However, Rashid Khan's introduction proved decisive as he dismissed Raza and further dented the hosts' fragile batting lineup.

The star of the innings was Allah Ghazanfar, whose mystery spin left Zimbabwe's batters clueless. Bowling a remarkable ten-over spell, Ghazanfar picked up a five-wicket haul, dismantling the middle and lower order. Only Williams displayed some resistance with a well-made fifty, but his departure, attempting to accelerate, sealed Zimbabwe’s fate. Rashid chipped in with three wickets as the hosts were bowled out for a paltry 127.

Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan, 3rd ODI Updates

Afghanistan win yet another series

Chasing a modest target, Afghanistan’s batters displayed maturity and composure. Zimbabwe's seamers, led by Richard Ngarava, started well by exploiting the swinging conditions. Abdul Malik struggled at the crease but managed to hold one end for a while. On the other hand, Sediqullah Atal continued his impressive run of form, playing with confidence and composure. The southpaw rotated the strike well and punished loose deliveries, reaching a fine fifty before falling to a stunning catch by Bennett.

By the time Malik was dismissed, Afghanistan were well in control. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi and Rahmat Shah ensured no further hiccups as they stitched a steady partnership to chase down the target with ease. Afghanistan secured a comprehensive 8-wicket victory, wrapping up the series in style.

For Zimbabwe, it was another disappointing outing with the bat. Only four players managed to reach double figures. The hosts need to address their batting woes as they look forward to the upcoming Boxing Day Test in Bulawayo, marking the first such game in Zimbabwe since 1996. Afghanistan’s consistent performances bode well for their preparations ahead of the Champions Trophy, as they continue to uncover exciting talents like Atal and Ghazanfar.