The T20I series between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan is set to commence on December 11 at the Harare Sports Club. This three-match leg is part of a broader tour that includes three ODIs and two Tests.
While Zimbabwe will be looking to bounce back from their recent 2-1 T20I series loss to Pakistan, Afghanistan aim to solidify their reputation as a rising powerhouse in T20 cricket.
Afghanistan will be missing Ibrahim Zadran due to injury but are buoyed by the return of their star leg-spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
Here’s Afghanistan’s best starting XI for the T20I series against Zimbabwe:
1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Wicketkeeper)
Rahmanullah Gurbaz is a dynamic opener known for his explosive batting style. His ability to provide quick starts will be pivotal on Harare’s slower surfaces. Besides his batting, his sharp glovework behind the stumps ensures he remains a crucial asset for Afghanistan.
2. Hazratullah Zazai
Partnering Gurbaz at the top, Zazai’s aggressive stroke play can dismantle opposition bowling attacks. His knack for clearing the boundary makes him one of Afghanistan’s most dependable power-hitters in T20Is.
3. Mohammad Nabi
A veteran in Afghanistan’s lineup, Nabi offers a wealth of experience. Known for his all-round abilities, he can stabilize the middle order while delivering crucial overs of economical off-spin. His leadership qualities will also complement Rashid Khan’s captaincy.
Also READ: Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi strongly criticize Taliban’s ban on Afghanistan women’s medical education
4. Darwish Rasooli
Darwish Rasooli is a talented middle-order batter who can anchor the innings during challenging phases. With a solid technique and an ability to rotate strike effectively, Rasooli will be key in ensuring Afghanistan doesn’t lose momentum in the middle overs.
5. Karim Janat
A versatile all-rounder, Karim Janat is known for his ability to accelerate in the death overs. His medium-pace bowling adds depth to Afghanistan’s attack, especially on surfaces that might offer variable bounce.
6. Gulbadin Naib
Gulbadin Naib’s experience in handling high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset. His role as a finisher with the bat and a reliable seam-bowling option will provide balance to the side.
7. Zubaid Akbari
Zubaid Akbari, a promising young batter, brings a fresh dimension to Afghanistan’s lineup. While relatively inexperienced, his flair and ability to play unorthodox shots could catch the Zimbabwean bowlers off guard.
8. Rashid Khan (captain)
Rashid Khan, the captain and Afghanistan’s most iconic cricketer, leads both with the ball and his inspirational presence. His lethal leg-spin, coupled with his batting prowess in the lower order, makes him a match-winner. Expect Rashid to spearhead the bowling attack and make critical contributions with the bat when needed.
9. Mujeeb Ur Rahman
Mujeeb’s return to the squad is a significant boost for Afghanistan. His mystery spin, particularly in the powerplay, can be a game-changer. Zimbabwe’s batters will have to tread cautiously against his deceptive variations.
10. Fazalhaq Farooqi
Fazalhaq Farooqi is Afghanistan’s primary pace spearhead. His ability to swing the ball early and deliver yorkers at the death makes him a key component of the bowling lineup.
11. Noor Ahmad
The young left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad adds another layer of mystery to Afghanistan’s spin-heavy attack. His ability to bowl in tandem with Rashid Khan will keep the Zimbabwean batters under constant pressure.
