Afghanistan sealed a 3–0 series sweep over Zimbabwe in their T20 international series on Sunday, holding off a spirited chase to win the final match by 9 runs at Harare Sports Club.
Batting first after winning the toss, Afghanistan posted an imposing total of 210 for 3 in their 20 overs, powered by a blistering 92 off 48 balls from wicketkeeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The opener smashed eight fours and five sixes at a strike rate of nearly 192 before falling in the 16th over. He was well supported by Ibrahim Zadran, who added a composed 60 off 49 deliveries, and Sediqullah Atal, who hit a rapid 35 not out off just 15 balls.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with only skipper Sikandar Raza managing to hold the run rate below six an over, finishing with economical figures of 4-0-20-0. Others, including Richard Ngarava (4-0-40-1) and Brad Evans (4-0-33-2), came under heavy pressure.
In response, Zimbabwe mounted a fierce chase, reaching 201 all out in the final over, falling just short of their target. Captain Sikandar Raza led from the front with a swashbuckling 51 off 29 balls, including 7 boundaries and 2 sixes, while Brian Bennett added 47 off 31. Ryan Burl (37 off 15) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (28 off 17) also provided late fireworks.
Despite the high scoring, Afghanistan’s bowlers held their nerve. Fazalhaq Farooqi claimed 2 for 29 in his four overs, including the key wickets of Raza and Musekiwa, while Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Fareed Ahmad chipped in with two wickets apiece.
Abdullah Ahmadzai also made crucial breakthroughs late in the innings, finishing with 2 for 30, including the dismissal of Bennett and T. Maposa, as Zimbabwe lost their last seven wickets for just 75 runs.
The win capped a dominant tour for Afghanistan, who won all three T20 matches and showcased depth in both their batting and bowling units. The result will offer a confidence boost ahead of upcoming international fixtures, while Zimbabwe will look to regroup after coming close in the final match but falling short in key moments.
