Afghanistan and Zimbabwe will play each other in a Test match for the first time in almost four years. The opening game of the ZIM vs AFG Test series is set for Thursday, December 26, at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The series begins this week.
With a disastrous showing in the second ODI, where they were bowled out for just 54 while chasing 287, and a washed-out first match where they were battling at 44/5, Zimbabwe had a difficult time in the ODI series. Additionally, they lost 2-1 against Afghanistan in the Twenty20 International series after being outplayed. Afghanistan will try to maintain their impressive run, while the hosts are keen to improve in the Test series.
Queens Sports Club Pitch Report
The pitch at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo is expected to be slightly dry. However, with an 85% chance of rain, pacers are likely to have the upper hand early in the innings, taking full advantage of the conditions for a considerable period.
Although the initial phase may be challenging for the batsmen as they adjust to the pitch, once they settle in, it is anticipated to become a batting-friendly surface. As the match progresses, spinners could also benefit from the conditions and pose a challenge to the batsmen.
Given the overcast conditions, the team that wins the toss will likely opt to bowl first.
Queens Sports Club Stats in Test
| Total Matches | 22 |
| Matches won batting first | 14 |
| Matches won bowling first | 8 |
| Average 1st innings score | 149 |
| Average 2nd innings score | 126 |
| Highest total recorded | 236/5 (20 Ovs) by ZIM vs SIN |
| Lowest total recorded | 57/10 (12.4 Ovs) by ZIM vs PAK |
| Highest score chased | 191/5 (19.5 Ovs) by AFG vs ZIM |
| Lowest score defended | 102/7 (20 Ovs) by UGA vs HK |
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