Cricket lovers across the globe have witnessed a few thrilling encounters between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan over the last decade. What makes this contention charming is how both teams, regularly considered “non-traditional” cricketing international locations, have risen to venture each other on equal phrases. The Zimbabwe national cricket team vs Afghanistan national cricket team timeline is filled with memorable series, historic firsts, and intense contests across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
Table of Contents
Early Encounters (2014)
The story began in July–August 2014, whilst Afghanistan toured Zimbabwe for a four-suit ODI Series and great video games. This was Afghanistan’s maiden bilateral Series in Zimbabwe.
- The ODI series ended 2-2, showcasing that Afghanistan, despite being fairly new to international cricket, ought to stand toe-to-toe with Zimbabwe.
- For Zimbabwe, it became a reality take a look at; for Afghanistan, it changed into a statement of arrival.
This marked the start of a budding rivalry.
UAE Series 2015–16
In December 2015 – January 2016, the two groups confronted off again, this time in the UAE. The Series covered five ODIs and two T20Is.
- Afghanistan won the ODI Series 3-2, proving their consistency towards a Test-gambling country.
- The T20I series also went to Afghanistan’s choice.
This was an essential milestone, because it established Afghanistan as a critical force in constrained-overs cricket.
Zimbabwe Tour of 2016–17
Zimbabwe hosted Afghanistan in January–February 2017 for a five-match ODI series.
- The contests had been close, however Afghanistan edged beyond with a 3-2 victory.
- By this factor, Afghanistan had begun dominating Zimbabwe in head-to-head encounters.
UAE 2017–18 Showdown
The teams met once more in February 2018 in Sharjah, UAE.
- ODI series: Afghanistan demolished Zimbabwe 4-1.
- T20I series: Afghanistan gained convincingly 2-0.
This Series underlined Afghanistan’s growing dominance in each codecs. Players like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi became household names, continually troubling Zimbabwe’s batting line-up.
Historic Test Encounters (2021)
Perhaps the most enormous moment on this timeline came in March 2021, while Zimbabwe toured Afghanistan in the UAE for their first-ever Test series against each other.
- The two-match Test series ended 1-1. Zimbabwe surprised each person by winning the first Test, however Afghanistan bounced back inside the 2d.
- In the T20I series, Afghanistan swept Zimbabwe 3-0.
The Tests have been a landmark moment, cementing this contention beyond white-ball cricket.
Afghanistan Tour of Zimbabwe 2024–25
The maximum recent chapter opened up in December 2024 – January 2025, while Afghanistan toured Zimbabwe.
- Test series: Afghanistan won 1-0, with one fit drawn.
- ODI series: Afghanistan clinched the Series with dominant performances.
- T20I series: Afghanistan took it 2-1, though Zimbabwe controlled a consolation win.
This excursion confirmed Afghanistan’s overall superiority in the contention at the same time as additionally giving Zimbabwe glimpses of desire with their preventing spirit.
Head-to-Head Records
Here’s a quick have a look at how Zimbabwe and Afghanistan stack up towards each different:
| Format | Matches | Zimbabwe Wins | Afghanistan Wins | Draw/NR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| ODIs | 31 | 10 | 20 | 1 |
| T20Is | 18 | 6 | 12 | 0 |
(Stats as much as Jan 2025)
Why This Rivalry Matters
- Clash of Rising Nations – Unlike matches between traditional giants, Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan has been approximately rising cricket countries proving themselves.
- Unpredictability – Matches are often intently contested, producing interesting finishes.
- Talent Showcase – Players like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Sikandar Raza, and Sean Williams have shone brightly in this rivalry.
Conclusion
The Zimbabwe national cricket team vs Afghanistan national cricket team timeline is greater than only a Series of ratings; it’s a story of increase, resilience, and ambition. While Afghanistan currently holds the top hand in most codecs, Zimbabwe keeps revealing flashes of brilliance. As each team continues to evolve, cricket fans can expect many more exciting chapters in this competition.
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