The cricketing world is gearing up for an exciting encounter between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan in the third T20I of the Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe, 2024-25. Both teams are keen to showcase their strengths in this T20 series, and the third match promises to be a thrilling contest. With both sides filled with talent and determination, it will be interesting to see how the match unfolds. If you’re a fan looking to engage in Dream11 fantasy cricket, we’ve got all the details you need for making the right picks, including match details, pitch report, head-to-head stats, probable playing elevens, and more.
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Match Details
- Series: Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe, 2024-25
- Match: 3rd T20I
- Date: December 14, 2024
- Time: 5:00 PM IST
- Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
Both Zimbabwe and Afghanistan have a lot to prove in this series, and with the third T20I being held in Harare, the pressure will be on to perform in front of their home and international fans.
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Pitch Report
Harare Sports Club, known for its excellent facilities and tradition of producing competitive matches, is expected to provide a balanced surface for the third T20I. Typically, the pitch here favors the batsmen, providing ample opportunity for stroke play, but it also has enough assistance for bowlers, especially in the early stages of the game.
- Pitch Characteristics: The pitch is generally good for batting, with the ball coming onto the bat nicely. However, spinners and medium-fast bowlers can expect to get some turn and bounce as the match progresses, especially in the second half of the innings.
- Weather Conditions: The weather in Harare is expected to be warm, with a slight chance of rain, which could potentially affect the game. However, the pitch is expected to remain dry, making it conducive for batting-friendly conditions.
- Ideal Score: A score of around 160-180 is generally considered competitive at this venue, although both teams have the potential to post higher totals depending on their form and the conditions on match day.
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Head to Head
Zimbabwe and Afghanistan have faced off in several international T20Is, and their head-to-head record makes for an interesting read. Both teams have been relatively competitive in T20 cricket, with Afghanistan often coming out on top in recent encounters.
- Total T20I Matches Played: 5
- Zimbabwe Wins: 1
- Afghanistan Wins: 4
- No Result: 0
Afghanistan has dominated the T20I head-to-head between these two teams, but Zimbabwe has the advantage of playing at home, which could make a significant difference in the upcoming match. Afghanistan will be keen to extend their dominance in this series, while Zimbabwe will aim to turn the tide and level the series with a strong performance in the third T20I.
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Probable Playing XI
Zimbabwe Probable Playing XI:
- Tadiwanashe Marumani (w)
- Brian Bennett
- Dion Myers
- Sikandar Raza (c)
- Ryan Burl
- Wessly Madhevere
- Tashinga Musekiwa
- Wellington Masakadza
- Richard Ngarava
- Blessing Muzarabani
- Trevor Gwandu
Zimbabwe’s lineup features several experienced players like Sikandar Raza and Blessing Muzarabani, who are expected to play a key role in both batting and bowling. Ryan Burl and Wessly Madhevere add depth to the middle order, while the likes of Wellington Masakadza and Richard Ngarava will look to exploit any bowling opportunities.
Afghanistan Probable Playing XI:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (w)
- Sediqullah Atal
- Zubaid Akbari
- Darwish Rasooli
- Mohammad Nabi
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Gulbadin Naib
- Rashid Khan (c)
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Naveen-ul-Haq
- Fareed Ahmad Malik
Afghanistan’s team boasts an excellent mix of experienced campaigners like Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan, along with the explosive batting talent of Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Rashid Khan will be key to their bowling attack, and with power hitters like Gulbadin Naib and Azmatullah Omarzai in the middle order, Afghanistan will aim to set or chase a challenging total.
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Live Streaming
The third T20I of the Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe, 2024-25, will be available for live streaming on various platforms. Fans can catch all the action on the following channels and services:
- TV Broadcast: The match will be telecast live on official sports channels, which may include Star Sports or other networks, depending on regional broadcasting rights.
- Online Streaming: The game will be streamed live on various digital platforms, such as the ESPNcricinfo app, Willow TV, or other streaming partners that have secured the rights to the Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe.
Be sure to check the broadcasting details and availability in your region for real-time coverage and match analysis.
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Dream11 Prediction
Both teams have strong lineups, and selecting the right players for your Dream11 fantasy team will be key to earning maximum points. Here’s a prediction of the top picks for your Dream11 squad based on recent form and expected match conditions.
Top Picks for Dream11 Fantasy:
- Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe) – Raza is an experienced all-rounder who is in good form with both bat and ball. He is a must-have in your Dream11 team.
- Rashid Khan (Afghanistan) – One of the best T20 bowlers in the world, Rashid Khan will be crucial in both the powerplay and middle overs.
- Ryan Burl (Zimbabwe) – Burl is known for his ability to provide crucial runs in the middle order and his handy spin bowling.
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan) – The wicketkeeper-batter is capable of explosive starts and could prove to be a game-changer in the powerplay.
- Blessing Muzarabani (Zimbabwe) – A tall fast bowler, Muzarabani will be key in taking early wickets, especially with the new ball.
- Mohammad Nabi (Afghanistan) – Nabi’s experience as an all-rounder can make a significant impact, both with the bat and ball.
- Wessly Madhevere (Zimbabwe) – Madhevere’s solid batting technique in the top order can anchor innings and provide stability.
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman (Afghanistan) – Mujeeb’s ability to control the game with his variations in spin makes him an excellent pick.
Conclusion
The third T20I between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Harare Sports Club promises to be an exciting clash with both teams having the potential to turn the game in their favor. Afghanistan enters the match as the stronger team on paper, but Zimbabwe will be determined to take advantage of home conditions and level the series. The match will showcase some of the best T20 talent from both teams, making it a must-watch event for cricket fans.
For Dream11 enthusiasts, the key to success will be selecting players who are in form and can contribute in multiple aspects of the game. With a balanced pitch and exciting lineups, this match will be a thrilling contest from start to finish. Make sure you tune in to the live action and place your Dream11 teams accordingly!
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