Islamabad, Dec 14: Darwish Rasooli hit his maiden international fifty, while Naveen-ul-Haq and Rashid Khan each claimed three wickets to help Afghanistan defeat Zimbabwe by 50 runs on Friday, leveling the T20 series with one match left.
The deciding match will take place on Saturday at Harare Sports Club, with three ODIs and two Tests scheduled afterward.
After losing the toss in Wednesday’s last-ball defeat, Afghanistan opted to bat. Rasooli, one of three team changes, scored 58 runs, helping his team post 153-6 in their 20 overs. He faced 42 deliveries, hitting one six and six fours. Azmatullah Omarzai (28) and Gulbadin Naib (26 not out) also contributed vital runs. Zimbabwe’s Ryan Burl and Trevor Gwandu picked up two wickets apiece.
Zimbabwe’s chase got off to a rocky start, with opener Brian Bennett scoring 27 before the team stumbled to 49-4. Captain Sikandar Raza tried to steady the innings with 35 runs, but other batters, apart from first-match star Tashinga Musekiwa, failed to reach double figures. Zimbabwe were bowled out for 103 in 17.4 overs.
Naveen-ul-Haq (3-19) and Rashid Khan (3-20) led Afghanistan’s bowling attack, supported by Mujeeb Ur Rahman (2-30).
Afghanistan captain Rashid praised Rasooli’s performance, highlighting the importance of finding a consistent No. 4 batter. He also commended his bowlers for improving their execution after the first match.
Zimbabwe skipper Raza acknowledged the team’s batting struggles despite strong bowling and fielding. He noted the importance of excelling in all areas to defeat a formidable Afghanistan side.
Brief scores:
Afghanistan: 153-6 in 20 overs (Darwish Rasooli 58, Azmatullah Omarzai 28, Gulbadin Naib 26 not out; Ryan Burl 2-16, Trevor Gwandu 2-29).
Zimbabwe: 103 in 17.4 overs (Sikandar Raza 35, Brian Bennett 27; Naveen-ul-Haq 3-19, Rashid Khan 3-20, Mujeeb Ur Rahman 2-30).
