Zimbabwe and Afghanistan will commence a Test series on Thursday, featuring two matches held in Bulawayo. This series is historic for Zimbabwe as it marks their first Boxing Day and New Year’s Test at home in nearly three decades. Following recent victories in T20Is and ODIs, Afghanistan enters the series with momentum. Both teams include seven uncapped players, making it a blend of youth and experience.
Zimbabwe will host Afghanistan for a highly anticipated Test series, commencing Thursday. The initial match is scheduled from December 26 to 30, followed by a second Test from January 2 to 6, both taking place at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. This occasion is particularly momentous for Zimbabwe, as it marks their first Boxing Day Test at home in 28 years since hosting England in 1996, which concluded in a rain-affected draw. Additionally, the upcoming second Test represents Zimbabwe’s inaugural New Year’s Test, both domestically and internationally.
Leading up to this series, Afghanistan secured impressive victories in the T20I series, winning 2-1, and completed a clean sweep in the ODI series with a score of 2-0. These recent results set an exciting tone for a competitive Test series between the two sides. Interestingly, each team has selected squads that feature seven uncapped players, showcasing a mix of young talent and experienced players. Notably, Zimbabwe has included Ben Curran, brother of England internationals Sam and Tom Curran, in their squad for the first time.
Afghanistan’s team is bolstered by the return of prominent player Rashid Khan, who is reentering the Test format after nearly a four-year absence. His presence significantly strengthens the visitors’ lineup as they prepare for the challenging encounters ahead. Anticipation surrounds these matches as both teams aim to make an impactful statement in this historic series.
Zimbabwe’s Squad: Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Dion Myers, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Brandon Mavuta, Johnathan Campbell, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Joylord Gumbie, Nyasha Mayavo, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri, Richard Ngarava, Takudzwa Chataira, Trevor Gwandu.
Afghanistan’s Squad: Abdul Malik, Bahir Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Riaz Hassan, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Azmatullah Omarzai, Ismat Alam, Afsar Zazai, Ikram Alikhil, Bashir Ahmad, Fareed Ahmad, Naveed Zadran, Rashid Khan, Yamin Ahmadzai, Zahir Khan, Zahir Shehzad, Zia-ur-Rehman.
The upcoming Test series between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan is notable for several reasons, particularly for Zimbabwe, which is celebrating significant milestones. This series represents their first Boxing Day match at home in 28 years. The historical significance is amplified as they will also play their first-ever New Year’s Test match. Moreover, the teams enter the series with Afghanistan having recently triumphed in earlier formats, thereby enhancing the competitive dynamic expected in the Tests. With a blend of emerging talent and seasoned players in their squads, both teams are set for an engaging contest.
In summary, the upcoming Test series between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan is poised to be a landmark event in international cricket, especially for Zimbabwe as they celebrate significant milestones. Both teams are eager to demonstrate their capabilities, following Afghanistan’s recent successes in limited-overs cricket. The introduction of new players alongside experienced talents promises to create an exciting atmosphere for fans and players alike, as they prepare for these historic matches.
Original Source: thenewsmill.com
