Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe - 2nd Test: Preview

The second Test between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe is set to commence on March 10 (Wednesday). The first Test ended only in two days with Zimbabwe punching above their weight, like always, and stunning the Asian side to win the game by 10 wickets. On a green pitch, their pacers wreaked havoc and then their skipper Sean Williams notched up a brilliant ton.

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Afghanistan batting was dismal, to say the least. Even though the pitch had a green tinge on it, they had won a big toss and were expected to put up a better show. Rather they didn’t make amends in the second innings too and were bundled out for less than 150 on both occasions.

While Afghanistan need to improve their batting against the moving ball, Zimbabwe have their own issues to deal with facing quality spin. Amir Hamza scalped six of their batsmen in the first innings and apart from Williams and, to some extent, Sikandar Raza, none of them looked comfortable. 

Nevertheless, both teams have got enough time to address their issues and expect this Test to be an enthralling encounter. Moreover, Afghanistan will be delighted if their ace spinner Rashid Khan gets fit. They missed him to the hilt in the opening game and will be hoping for his immediate impact to level the series.

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Probable Playing XIs

Afghanistan

Abdul Malik, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Munir Ahmad, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Afsar Zazai (WK), Asghar Afghan (C), Rashid Khan, Amir Hamza, Yamin Ahmadzai, Zahir Khan.

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Zimbabwe

Prince Masvaure, Kevin Kasuza, Tarisai Musakanda, Sean Williams (C), Wesley Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Regis Chakabva (WK), Donald Tiripano, Blessing Muzarabani, Victor Nyauchi.

AFG vs ZIM Head to Head

Played - 1; ZIM Won - 1; AFG Won - 0