ZIM vs AFG Match Prediction : 1st Test, Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe, 2025
ZIM vs AFG Win Probability
45%
Zimbabwe
8%
Draw
46%
Afghanistan
Afghanistan To Win, 2.00
Afghanistan has a superior spin bowling lineup
Zimbabwe may be playing at home but its lack of experience in Test cricket could cost it heavily
Afghanistan has improved its batting significantly over the last few years
ZIM vs AFG Betting Tips
Afghanistan first-innings score to be over 300 runs
Afghanistan’s top order—led by Ibrahim Zadran and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi—has shown solid temperament in long-format cricket. With conditions expected to flatten out after the early overs, a bet on Afghanistan crossing 300 in their first innings looks promising.
Zia-ur-Rehman to be Afghanistan’s top bowler
The left-arm spinner is in excellent form in domestic cricket and took five wickets against Zimbabwe earlier this year. Expect him to thrive on the fourth and fifth days in Harare.
Team form (Last 5 matches)
Zimbabwe
Afghanistan
Zimbabwe’s recent red-ball record is worrying; they’ve lost four of their last six Tests by an innings. Afghanistan hasn’t played much Test cricket lately, but they were impressive in their last outing against Zimbabwe, where they piled on runs and out-bowled the hosts.
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Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head Record
Afghanistan has the upper hand historically against Zimbabwe, including a dominant innings victory in Bulawayo last year. The two teams have met four times, with 2 wins for Afghanistan, 1 for Zimbabwe, and one Draw.
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Live-streaming and Broadcast
Fans in India can watch the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Test live on FanCode. The match will take place at Harare Sports Club from October 20–24, 2025, with play starting at 1:00 PM IST (9:30 AM local time).
You can find live odds, updated tips after every day's play, and more information about this match at ocbscores.com.
ZIM vs AFG Team Previews
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s return to Harare brings familiarity, but not necessarily confidence. Their batting unit has been brittle, having been bowled out under 200 in four consecutive innings. The inclusion of Antum Naqvi, a Belgian-born player who recently became eligible to represent Zimbabwe, brings intrigue and hope. His domestic triple century and strong technique make him one to watch.
Veterans Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine must anchor the innings if Zimbabwe are to post a competitive score. Sikandar Raza adds invaluable experience, both with bat and ball, while the seam attack, comprising of Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, and Brad Evans, will rely on early movement.
Zimbabwe’s biggest issue is sustaining pressure across five days; their bowlers tend to fade as matches progress, and spin remains underwhelming outside Wellington Masakadza.
Zimbabwe Expected Playing 11
Craig Ervine (c), Ben Curran, Antum Naqvi, Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza, Roy Kaia, Brian Bennett, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava.
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Afghanistan
Afghanistan have quietly built one of the most capable red-ball sides among non–WTC nations. Hashmatullah Shahidi leads a disciplined squad that knows how to bat long and exploit spin-friendly conditions.
The absence of Rashid Khan is significant, but Zia-ur-Rehman Akbar and Sharafuddin Ashraf form a potent spin duo, backed by seamer Yamin Ahmadzai, who brings early movement and control.
With Rahmat Shah injured, Afghanistan will look to Ibrahim Zadran and Bahir Shah for top-order stability. Rahmanullah Gurbaz adds an attacking option behind the stumps, capable of shifting momentum quickly.
The balance of the side remains strong, and their ability to find breakthroughs even on flat pitches gives them a clear edge.
Afghanistan Expected Playing 11
Ibrahim Zadran, Bahir Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Shahidullah Kamal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Abdul Malik, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Zia-ur-Rehman Akbar, Yamin Ahmadzai, Bashir Ahmad, Khalil Gurbaz.
ZIM vs AFG Toss Prediction
Expect both captains to bat first if they win the toss. Harare tends to offer some seam movement early, but batting becomes easier as the match progresses before spin takes over late on.
Pitch Report and Weather Conditions
The Harare Sports Club pitch will likely have a touch of green on the first morning, offering assistance to fast bowlers with the new ball. However, it should flatten out nicely by Day 2, allowing batters to build big partnerships. By Day 4 and 5, cracks will open up, bringing spinners into play.
Temperatures in Harare will hover around 26–28°C with minimal chances of rain—ideal for a full five days of play.
ZIM vs AFG: Who Will Win?
Zimbabwe’s long wait for a Test win in Harare (last victory in 2013) looks set to continue. Afghanistan have more depth, better spin options, and batters capable of adapting to changing conditions. The hosts’ top order remains inconsistent, and unless someone like Raza or Naqvi plays a blinder, Afghanistan should dominate proceedings.
Bet on Afghanistan to win.
| Pro Tip: With Rashid Khan rested, Zia-ur-Rehman is the standout choice for “Top Bowler” markets. Also consider a small punt on Antum Naqvi 50+ runs in any innings for value odds. |
