ABU DHABI: Afghanistan registered a commanding 158-run victory over Zimbabwe in the second match of the UAE ODI Tri-Series at Abu Dhabi on Monday, powered by centuries from Ibrahim Zadran and Sedqullah Atal before Rashid Khan’s four-wicket haul dismantled the opposition.
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Batting first, Afghanistan posted an imposing 294 before bowling Zimbabwe out for 136 in 38.4 overs to secure a comprehensive victory.
Ibrahim Zadran anchored the innings with 90 off 96 deliveries, striking nine boundaries and two sixes, while Sedqullah Atal produced an outstanding 102 off 110 balls, including eight fours and a six.
The pair played a crucial role in building Afghanistan’s total, with Atal converting his start into a century and Ibrahim providing stability at the top of the order.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz contributed 25 off 20 balls, while Hashmatullah Shahidi added 28 off 30 deliveries. Afghanistan eventually finished on 294, setting Zimbabwe a challenging target of 295.
For Zimbabwe, Brad Evans and Ernest Masuku claimed three wickets each, while Blessing Muzarabani took two.
In reply, Zimbabwe struggled against Afghanistan’s disciplined bowling attack and were bowled out for 136 in 38.4 overs.
Brian Bennett top-scored with 31 off 40 balls, while Sikandar Raza contributed 48 off 80 deliveries, including three fours and a six. Ryan Burl added 31 off 63 balls, but Zimbabwe failed to build the partnerships required to challenge the target.
Rashid Khan spearheaded Afghanistan’s bowling effort, claiming four wickets for just 17 runs in eight overs, including one maiden. His economical spell ensured Zimbabwe’s middle and lower order could not recover.
Fazalhaq Farooqi also made a significant contribution, taking two wickets for 15 runs in five overs. AM Ghazanfar and Mohammad Nabi claimed one wicket each, while the remaining batters fell to the pressure created by Afghanistan’s bowling unit.
Atal’s century, Ibrahim’s composed innings and Rashid’s decisive spell proved instrumental in Afghanistan’s emphatic victory, giving the side a strong performance in the UAE ODI Tri-Series.
