Zimbabwe will aim to recover and finish strong as they face Afghanistan in the third and final ODI of the ongoing series at Harare Sports Club. The hosts are eager to redeem themselves after a crushing 232-run defeat in the second ODI, which handed Afghanistan an unassailable lead.
After the first match was abandoned due to rain, Afghanistan dominated the second game. Sediqullah Atal’s century and Abdul Malik’s 84 powered Afghanistan to a competitive 286/6 in 50 overs. Zimbabwe’s batting collapsed under pressure, getting bundled out for just 54 runs in 17.5 overs. AM Ghazanfar and Naveed Malik starred with the ball, claiming three wickets each.
As Zimbabwe looks to salvage pride, here’s an analysis of their potential Playing XI for the final match of the series.
Harare Sports Club Pitch report
The morning conditions in Harare promise assistance for pacers, with the fresh pitch offering swing and seam due to lingering moisture. Zimbabwe’s top order struggled against movement earlier, and a repeat could be on the cards if their openers falter again. However, the pitch transforms as the day progresses, becoming a batter-friendly surface by afternoon. Spinners could still play a key role during the middle overs, particularly someone like Rashid Khan. With chasing teams favored historically, winning the toss and bowling first appears a smart choice.
Harare Sports Club Stats in ODI
| Total Matches | 199 |
| Matches won batting first | 90 |
| Matches won bowling first | 103 |
| Average 1st innings Score | 229 |
| Average 2nd innings Score | 195 |
| Highest total recorded | 408/6 (50 Ovs) By ZIM vs USA |
| Lowest total recorded | 35/10 (18 Ovs) By ZIM vs SL |
| Highest score chased | 328/3 (46.4 Ovs) By RSA vs AUS |
| Lowest score defended | 129/10 (32.4 Ovs) By ZIM vs AFG |
