Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Match Prediction – Who will win today’s 1st ODI match between ZIM vs AFG?

In this article, we will be analyzing the ZIM vs AFG Match Prediction for the 1st ODI. Rising Asian side Afghanistan (AFG) will take on the hosts Zimbabwe (ZIM) in the first ODI at the Harare Sports Club in Harare, on Tuesday, December 17. Afghanistan have won the T20I series by 2-1 and they would like to keep the momentum they have gained winning two consecutive games after losing the first T20I. They will take heart from their recent ODI series win against Bangladesh.

On the other hand, Zimbabwe’s dismal run in international cricket has ensued. They lost the T20I series and ODI series against Pakistan and Afghanistan too proved to be a tough nut to crack. Their top order looked unsettled while the bowling has come good in patches with less impact during the crucial phases of the games.

ZIM vs AFG Match Details

Pitch Report

The Harare Sports Club pitch is a balanced wicket which aids spinners more than the pacers. The batters might feel the ball is sticking to the deck before coming onto the bat. Speedsters who can take the pace out of the ball will draw good results on this deck. Hence given that Afghanistan have a world-class spin bowling unit, they will likely have an upper hand over the hosts in the upcoming first ODI game.

Also check: ZIM vs AFG Live Score, 1st ODI 

Head-To-Head Records

Probable Predicted XIs for ZIM vs AFG

Zimbabwe:

Craig Ervine (c), Tadiwanashe Marumani, Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza, Brian Bennett, Sean Williams, Ben Curran, Trevor Gwandu, Richard Ngarava, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani.

Afghanistan: 

Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sadiqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Nangeyalia Karote, AM Ghanzafar, Gulbadin Naib.

Probable Top Performers from ZIM vs AFG

Probable Best Batter: Azmatullah Omarzai

Talented all rounder Azamatullah Omarzai has been in good touch in whatever game time he got with the bat during the T20I series. He played three games and scored 75 runs at an average of 25 and a strike rate of around 104.

Probable Best Bowler: Rashid Khan

Talismanic Afghan legspinner Rashid Khan seems to have evolved out of the rough patch and the spinner was in great form in the T20I series. He played in three games and claimed nine wickets at a phenomenal average of 8.11 and his economy rate was just six runs per over.

Today’s Match Prediction: Afghanistan to win the match

Scenario 1

Zimbabwe win the toss and opt to bowl first

PP Score: 60 – 80

AFG: 265-285

Afghanistan to win the match

Scenario 2

Afghanistan win the toss and opt to bowl first

PP Score: 50-70

ZIM: 230-250

Afghanistan to win the match

Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.