T20I series between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan He is scheduled to start on December 11 at Harare Sports Club. This three-match leg is part of a wider tour that includes three ODIs and two Tests.
As Zimbabwe looks to bounce back from their recent 2-1 loss in the T20I series to Pakistan, Afghanistan are aiming to enhance their reputation as a rising power in T20 cricket.
Afghanistan will be without Ibrahim Zadran due to injury but is buoyed by the match The return of their star Mujibur Rahman.
Here is Afghanistan's best XI for the T20I series against Zimbabwe:
1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicket-keeper)
Rahmanullah Gurbaz is a dynamic opener known for his explosive batting style. His ability to provide quick runs will be pivotal on the slower surfaces in Harare. Besides his powerful batting, his sharp gloves behind the stumps ensure that he remains an important asset for Afghanistan.
2. Hazratullah Zazaei
By partnering Gurbaz at the top, Zazai's aggressive playing style can dismantle opposition bowling attacks. His knack for clearing boundaries makes him one of Afghanistan's most dependable power batsmen in T20Is.
3. Muhammad is a prophet
Nabi, a veteran of the Afghanistan national team, brings a wealth of experience. Known for his all-round ability, he can stabilize the middle order while offering significant amounts of economic spin. His leadership qualities will also complement Rashid Khan's leadership.
Read also: Rashid Khan and Muhammad Nabi strongly criticize Taliban ban on medical education for Afghan women
4. Darwish Rasouli
Darwish Rasouli is a talented middle-order batsman who can anchor the innings during difficult phases. With his powerful technique and ability to rotate the strike effectively, Rasouli will be key in ensuring Afghanistan do not lose momentum in midfield.
5. Karim Jannat
Jannat Cream, a multi-use drug, is known for its ability to speed up death. Their medium-pace bowling adds depth to Afghanistan's attack, especially on surfaces that may provide variable bounce.
6. Gulbuddin Nayeb
Gulbuddin Naib's experience in dealing with high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset. His role as a finisher with the bat and a reliable bowling option will provide balance to the side.
7. Zubaid Akbari
Zabid Akbari, a promising young batsman, brings a new dimension to the Afghanistan line-up. Although he is relatively inexperienced, his flair and ability to play unorthodox shots could surprise Zimbabwean bowlers.
8. Rashid Khan (Captain)
Rashid Khan, Afghanistan's most famous captain and cricketer, leads the team with the ball and his inspiring presence. His lethal leg-spin, coupled with his batting prowess in the lower order, makes him a match-winner. Expect Rashid to lead the bowling attack and make crucial contributions with the bat when needed.
9. Mujeeb Rahman
Mujib's return to the team is a big boost for Afghanistan. His mysterious rotation, especially on the powerplay, can be a game-changer. Zimbabwe players will have to tread carefully with his deceptive variations.
10. Fazlul Haq Farooqi
Fazlul Haq Farooqi is the main spearhead in Afghanistan. His ability to swing the ball early and deliver Yorkies at the death makes him an essential part of the bowling line-up.
11. Nour Ahmed
Young left-arm spinner Noor Ahmed adds another layer of mystique to the top-heavy Afghan attack. His ability to bowl alongside Rashid Khan will keep the Zimbabwean batsmen under constant pressure.