ZIM vs AFG Match Prediction : 1st T20, Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe, 2025

Afghanistan and Zimbabwe kick off their three-match T20I series in Harare, with both sides eager to set the tone early. Afghanistan enter as clear favourites, boasting a powerful spin attack and several IPL-hardened players. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, will rely on home advantage and experience from Sikandar Raza and Craig Ervine to counter the visitors.

With Harare’s surface known to aid spin, expect a tactical contest where power hitting and smart bowling could decide the opener.

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Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Head-to-Head Record

Afghanistan has dominated the head to head against Zimbabwe with 12 wins out of 14 matches. However, Zimbabwe are unbeaten in their last five T20s (all in qualifiers), while Afghanistan have lost three of their last four, including a 3-0 drubbing by Bangladesh.

Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Live-streaming and Broadcast

You can watch the match live on ZBC TV in Zimbabwe and RTA Sports / FanCode App for international viewers.

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 are back in the spotlight with Sikandar Raza leading a rejuvenated squad ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. The return of Graeme Cremer adds vital experience — his wrist spin could prove a difference-maker on Harare’s dry surface. Brendan Taylor, making his international return, provides stability in the middle order alongside Ryan Burl and Brian Bennett, both of whom were superb in the Africa Qualifiers.

With Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani handling the new ball, Zimbabwe have the pace to trouble Afghanistan’s top order, though their death bowling remains a concern. Brad Evans and Tony Munyonga bring depth with both bat and ball. Zimbabwe’s key challenge will be handling Rashid, Mujeeb, and Noor in tandem — something they’ve historically struggled with.

Expect Raza to play a floater role, adjusting his position depending on the match situation. Harare’s conditions suit the hosts, but their ability to post 160+ will determine whether they can finally break their Afghan jinx.

Zimbabwe Expected Playing 11

Craig Ervine (C), Brian Bennett, Innocent Kaia, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Wesley Madhevere, Clive Madande (WK), Luke Jongwe, Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava

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Afghanistan

Afghanistan enter this series looking to find rhythm ahead of the T20 World Cup. Rashid Khan’s men are still reeling from a disappointing Asia Cup and a whitewash in Bangladesh, but this is a team stacked with match-winners. Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran form a powerful opening pair, while Sediqullah Atal and Mohammad Nabi provide the experience in the middle order.

The most exciting aspect is the presence of young guns like Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai, Abdullah Ahmadzai, and Bashir Ahmad, all under 23 and capable of bowling with pace and variation. Noor Ahmad and Mujeeb Ur Rahman will join Rashid to form a deadly spin trio — arguably the best in world cricket.

With Harare’s surface expected to grip, Afghanistan’s bowling depth gives them a decisive edge. Their batting has looked shaky recently, but one solid powerplay could turn the game in their favour. Rashid’s leadership and milestone motivation could drive them to a strong start in this series.

Afghanistan Expected Playing 11

Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Ibrahim Zadran, Hazratullah Zazai, Mohammad Nabi, Najibullah Zadran, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan (C), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi

ZIM vs AFG Toss Prediction

Teams batting second have won 6 of the last 9 T20Is at Harare Sports Club. With dew expected in the evening, both captains may prefer to bowl first and chase under lights.

Pitch Report and Weather Conditions

Harare offers a balanced surface with a bit of bounce early on. Pacers enjoy the first 2–3 overs before the pitch settles for batting. Expect a first-innings total of 160–170 to be competitive. Spinners will play a major role in the middle overs.

The weather is clear with mild evening temperatures and no rain forecast.

ZIM vs AFG: Who Will Win?

Afghanistan’s superior spin attack and Rashid’s current form make them favourites. Zimbabwe’s batting has improved, but they have historically struggled against quality spin and death bowling. Unless Raza or Bennett produces something special, Afghanistan should take the series lead.

Bet on Afghanistan to win.

Pro Tip: Expect Rashid and Noor to dominate the middle overs — a good bet would be “Zimbabwe Total Runs in Overs 7–15: Under 62.5”. Also, look for early wickets markets if Zimbabwe bowls first, as Muzarabani has dismissed top-order batters in the powerplay in 4 of his last 5 matches.