Afghanistan Triumphs Over Zimbabwe in T20I Opener with 37-Run Victory

In an exciting T20I opener, Afghanistan secured a 37-run victory over Zimbabwe at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. After a shaky start, Afghanistan managed to post 177 runs, thanks to standout performances from Ijaz Ahmadzai and Rashid Khan. Zimbabwe struggled in their chase, ultimately falling short at 140 runs. This match sets the tone for an intriguing series ahead. Read on for detailed highlights and player performances.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 28, 2026, 08:27 IST

Afghanistan Claims Victory in T20I Series Opener

Sharjah [UAE], October 28: Afghanistan kicked off their T20I series against Zimbabwe with a solid 37-run win during the first match held at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Tuesday night.

Setting a target of 178, Afghanistan scored 177 runs before bowling out Zimbabwe for 140 in just 19.1 overs, securing their victory by 37 runs.

Key performances came from Ijaz Ahmadzai and Rashid Khan, who played crucial roles in helping Afghanistan recover from an early batting slump.

The Afghan team faced a rocky start, losing three wickets within the first three overs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz managed 18 runs off 21 balls, while Ibrahim Zadran contributed five runs from six deliveries. Sediqullah Atal and Mohammad Akram also fell cheaply, leaving Afghanistan in a precarious position at 45 for 4.

Shahidullah Kamal steadied the innings with a significant 46 runs off 42 balls, hitting two fours and three sixes. His performance was pivotal until Ijaz Ahmadzai shifted the momentum with a blistering 52 runs off just 22 balls, featuring four fours and four sixes at an impressive strike rate of 236.36.

Rashid Khan added fireworks at the end, scoring 30 runs off 10 balls with a remarkable strike rate of 300, including four sixes and a four, helping Afghanistan reach 177 before being all out in 19.5 overs. Noor Ahmad chipped in with six runs off four balls, while the tailenders contributed crucial runs in the final overs.

Zimbabwe's chase for 178 began poorly, as they struggled to form solid partnerships. Brian Bennett scored 13 runs off 18 balls, and Ben Curran managed seven runs off eight deliveries. Innocent Kaia provided some resistance with 24 runs off 26 balls, but Zimbabwe continued to lose wickets at critical junctures.

Ryan Burl emerged as Zimbabwe's top scorer with 32 runs off 24 balls, including two sixes, while captain Sikandar Raza added 17 runs off 13 balls.

Wessly Madhevere attempted to inject some aggression with 17 runs off eight balls, but it was insufficient to turn the tide. Ultimately, Zimbabwe was bowled out for 140 in 19.1 overs, falling short by 37 runs.