Afghanistan clinches 2‑0 lead over Zimbabwe in Sharjah T20 series
A dominant Afghanistan side has sealed the series with back‑to‑back wins, leaving Zimbabwe’s coach demanding more aggression.
First T20: A 37‑run win for Afghanistan
In Sharjah on Tuesday night, the Afghanistan senior team beat Zimbabwe by 37 runs, marking Zimbabwe’s 20th loss to the Asian side in T20 cricket. Ijaz Ahmadzai rescued Afghanistan from 66‑for‑5 with a rapid 20‑ball fifty, while Rashid Khan added a quick 30 off 10 balls at the death and later took 2 for 20 with the ball.
Zimbabwe’s chase faltered at 140 all out, despite a solid start of 54‑for‑4 after ten overs. The Chevrons’ bowlers, including Brad Evans and debutant Ernest Masuku, could not contain the opposition.
Second T20: Afghanistan lifts the series
The second match on 29 October saw Afghanistan post 221/7, with Azmatullah Omarzai smashing 116 off 50 balls (five fours, twelve sixes) and Ijaz Ahmadzai contributing 52 off 27. Rashid Khan finished unbeaten on 25 from six balls.
Zimbabwe replied with 202/5, anchored by captain Sikandar Raza who scored an unbeaten 106 off 56 balls (five fours, nine sixes). Despite a partnership with Tafadzwa Tsiga, Zimbabwe fell short by 19 runs.
Coach’s reaction and what’s next
After the first defeat, Zimbabwe head coach Justin Sammons described the performance as “disappointing” and said the team was “absolutely gutted.” He urged his players to show “more aggression and ruthlessness” as they prepare for the third T20.
With a 2‑0 lead, Afghanistan will aim for a clean sweep in the final match scheduled for 1 November at 8:00 PM IST.
Player highlights and stats
Azmatullah Omarzai: 123 runs in two innings at 61.50, economy 9.33.
Ijaz Ahmadzai: 104 runs in two innings at 52.00, two consecutive half‑centuries.
Sikandar Raza: 123 runs in two innings at 123.00, including an unbeaten 106.
Brad Evans: four wickets in two matches at 18.50.
Vincent Masekesa: one wicket for 21 runs in three overs.
Why the searches are spiking
Google users in countries such as India, Pakistan, Singapore, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates are looking up “Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe” as the series draws to a close. The surge reflects interest in live scores, playing XIs and fantasy tips highlighted by CricketAddictor and India Today.
