Afghanistan produced a clinical all-round performance to seal a seven-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the second T20I at Harare Sports Club, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. After opting to bat, Zimbabwe struggled to post a competitive total, managing only 125 in 19.3 overs against Afghanistan’s disciplined attack led by Rashid Khanwho delivered a match-winning spell of 3 for 9. In response, Ibrahim Zadran’s unbeaten 57 and Azmatullah Omarzai’s fiery 25 off 13 balls* guided Afghanistan to victory with 12 balls to spare.

ZIM vs AFG, 2nd T20I: Rashid Khan spins web as Zimbabwe falter again

Zimbabwe’s innings never found stability after an early collapse inside the powerplay. Openers Brian Bennett and Dion Myers fell cheaply, and veteran Brendan Taylor’s dismissal for just 3 left the hosts struggling at 34/3. Captain Sikandar Raza (37 off 32) fought back briefly with boundaries against the pacers, but the Afghan spinners soon took control. Mujeeb Ur Rahman (2/26) and Rashid (3/9) dismantled the middle order with relentless accuracy and sharp turn. Late cameos from Tony Munyoga (19) and Brad Evans (12) only pushed Zimbabwe to 125 before being bowled out in the final over. Rashid’s spell, featuring 10 dot balls and three key wickets, was the highlight, earning him the Player of the Match award.

ZIM vs AFG, 2nd T20I: Ibrahim Zadran anchors chase after early setbacks

Chasing 126, Afghanistan made a brisk start through Rahmanullah Gurbaz (16 off 12) before he fell to Evans. Despite losing Sediqullah Atal (8) and Darwish Rasooli (17) at intervals, Zadran’s composed 57 off 51 balls* anchored the chase perfectly. His partnership with Omarzai, who smashed 5 fours in his 25* off just 13 balls, ensured Afghanistan crossed the finish line comfortably in 18 overs. Zimbabwe’s bowlers, apart from Wellington Masakadza (1/20) and Raza (0/15), failed to create pressure. The win not only sealed the series for Afghanistan but also showcased their growing balance and dominance across formats, with Rashid leading from the front both tactically and with the ball.