Hey cricket fans, welcome to IPL Star, your go-to spot for sizzling cricket updates that hit harder than a Rashid Khan googly. If you’re buzzing about the white-ball fireworks, buckle up. The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 is just two days away, and it’s shaping up to be a nail-biter at Harare Sports Club. Fresh off Zimbabwe’s gritty one-off Test win – their first home victory in over a decade – the Chevrons are riding high. Afghanistan, meanwhile, brings their spin wizardry and explosive bats, hungry to flip the script after that red-ball heartbreak.
This isn’t just another bilateral series; it’s a launchpad for the 2026 T20 World Cup qualifiers. Imagine the drama: Sikandar Raza’s all-round magic clashing with Rashid Khan’s unplayable leg-spin, Brian Bennett’s blistering starts against Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s power-hitting. On October 29, 2025, at 1:30 PM local time, these two underdog giants will lock horns in a match that could redefine their T20 fortunes.
In this comprehensive match preview, we’ll unpack everything you need: from venue vibes and pitch secrets to squad breakdowns, player spotlights, head-to-head fireworks, and our no-holds-barred prediction. We’ve scoured the latest buzz from ICC updates, fan chats on X, and expert takes to bring you fresh insights. Whether you’re a die-hard Zim supporter or an Afghan Atalan devotee, stick around – we’ve got tables packed with stats, quick tips for live viewing, and even a fan poll to fire up the comments.
Why does this matter? Zimbabwe’s unbeaten T20 streak in recent qualifiers screams momentum, while Afghanistan’s world-class spinners could turn Harare into a web of deception. Who’s your pick to lift the opener? Drop it below and let’s chat. Ready to dive in? Let’s roll!
Match Details at a Glance
The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 kicks off the three-match series, part of the broader Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe 2025. This white-ball leg follows the one-off Test (October 20-24), where Zimbabwe scripted history with an innings win, thanks to Ben Curran’s 121 and Brad Evans’ 5/22 haul. It’s all about momentum now – Zim wants to whitewash the series, while AFG eyes redemption.
Here’s the essentials in a handy table:
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Series | Afghanistan Tour of Zimbabwe 2025 (3 T20Is) |
| Match | 1st T20I |
| Date | Wednesday, October 29, 2025 |
| Toss Time | 1:00 PM Local (Harare Time) |
| Match Start | 1:30 PM Local / 11:30 AM GMT / 5:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Harare Sports Club, Harare, Zimbabwe |
| Officials | ICC Neutrals (e.g., Langton Rusere as ref; umps TBA) |
| Match Referee | Pending ICC Confirmation |
| Significance | T20WC 2026 Qualifier Prep; Post-Test Rivalry |
This day game setup minimizes dew woes, setting up a pure skill showdown. For more on the full tour, check ICC’s official schedule – it’s loaded with stakes.
What excites you most – the pace duel or spin saga? Hit the comments!
Harare Sports Club: Venue Guide and T20I Stats
Ah, Harare Sports Club (HSC) – the beating heart of Zimbabwe cricket since 1901. This cozy 10,000-seater gem, once home to Rhodesia and now the Chevrons’ fortress, blends colonial charm with modern buzz. Picture vocal crowds under the African sun, boundaries that reward the brave, and a surface that’s equal parts friend and foe.
From X buzz, fans are hyped: “HSC’s where Zim turns it on! #ZIMvAFG” – @ZimCricketPod nailed it with their XI prediction. Historically, it’s hosted 64 T20Is, with balanced vibes but a slight edge to batting first.
Key venue deets:
| Stat Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 10,000 (Intimate, electric atmosphere) |
| Ends | City End (Swing-friendly), Club House End (Seam grip) |
| Boundary Lengths | Square: 65-70m; Straight: 75m (Big-hitter paradise) |
| Total T20I Matches | 64 (as of Oct 2025) |
| Avg 1st Innings Score | 158 (Balanced; 160+ par) |
| Highest Team Total | 234/4 (India vs Zim, Jul 2024) |
| Lowest Team Total | 90 (Zim vs AFG, Dec 2024) |
| Highest Chase | 194/6 (SL vs Zim, Sep 2025) |
| Wins Batting 1st | 32 (50%) |
| Wins Chasing | 28 (44%; 4 NR) |
| Zim Record at HSC | W25-L18-NR2 (Home stronghold) |
| AFG Record at HSC | W4-L3 (Limited but potent) |
Recent HSC T20I gems? Sri Lanka edged Zim by 8 wickets on Sep 7, 2025, but Zim fired back with a 5-wicket thriller on Sep 6. Pacers grab early scalps from the City End, but spinners like Rashid thrive later. For a virtual tour, peek at Zimbabwe Cricket’s HSC page.
This venue loves underdogs – could it crown Zim kings again? Share your HSC memory below!
Pitch Report: Harare’s Twisty Secrets and Dew Drama
Harare’s pitches? Firm, grassy starters that ease into spin heaven – perfect for this ZIM vs AFG T20I preview twist. Curator notes hint at fresh rolling for true bounce, but that green tinge screams early seam. Post-powerplay, expect grip for tweakers; death overs favor slogs over shorter ropes.
From recent intel, HSC’s track suits 160-170 pars, with spinners snaring 70% wickets in last T20Is. Dew? Minimal in this afternoon slot – no floodlights till later games.
Breakdown table:
| Phase | Behavior & Tactics | Expected Runs/Wkts | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powerplay (Overs 1-6) | Fresh grass aids swing/seam (130-140kph); low bounce cutters | 25-35 runs; 2-3 wkts | Pacers (Muzarabani/Ngarava) |
| Middle Overs (7-15) | Grip/turn for spinners; slower balls grip | 50-60 runs; 3-4 wkts | Spinners (Khan/Raza) @6.0 econ |
| Death Overs (16-20) | Shorter boundaries; hard length yorkers | 60-70 runs; 2 wkts | Big hitters (Bennett/Gurbaz) |
| Overall Par Score | Balanced; 165+ defendable | Total: 160-170 | Bat 1st (50% wins) |
| Dew Factor | Low (Day game; <4 PM start) – minimal slick | +5-10 runs chase | Negligible impact |
| Favorable For | Disciplined batting + tactical spin | – | All-rounders rule |
Toss tip: Bat first to post big on fresh pitch. X fans echo: “Spin to win at HSC! #ZIMvAFG”. For deeper dives Cricbuzz pitch archives.
Picture Raza foxing Zadran here – pure gold. What’s your pitch play?
Weather Watch: Sunny Skies for October 29 Showdown
Late October in Harare? Think warm spring bliss – dry, bright, and begging for boundaries. No rain clouds on the horizon for this ZIM vs AFG clash, per latest forecasts. Expect a light breeze to tease swing early, but overall, it’s batter’s delight.
Quick weather snapshot:
| Parameter | Forecast (Oct 29, 2025) | Impact on Play |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 24-30°C (Peak 33°C afternoon; cools to 25°C) | Comfortable; low fatigue |
| Humidity | 40-55% | Dry ball; true bounce |
| Precipitation | 0% rain; 80% sunshine, few clouds | Full 40 overs guaranteed |
| Wind | Light NE breeze (8-12 km/h) | Aids City End swing |
| Visibility | Excellent; no haze | Clear DRS calls |
Sunny spells favor aggressive starts – think Bennett smashing Muzarabani. X chatter: “Perfect weather for a Zim upset! #ExperienceZimbabwe”. Track live via AccuWeather Harare.
Blue skies, big hits – sounds like T20 magic. You packing sunscreen for watch parties?
Live Streaming Guide: Catch Every Boundary
Missing the live action? No sweat – we’ve got your global guide to stream the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 without missing a beat. FanCode dominates digital rights, but options abound for every corner.
Streaming table by region:
| Region | TV Broadcast | Live Streaming Platform | Cost/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| India/South Asia | None | FanCode App/Website | ₹99/match; HD quality |
| USA/Canada | Willow TV | Willow TV App (cable login) | Subscription; VPN if needed |
| UK/Europe | None | FanCode International | £4.99; geo-unlock tips |
| Pakistan | PTV Sports (if extended) | Daraz App | Free highlights |
| Sub-Saharan Africa | SuperSport | SuperSport Stream | DStv/M-Net subs |
| Global Freebies | YouTube (Zim Cricket highlights) | ESPNcricinfo Ball-by-Ball | Post-match reels |
Pro tip: Use FanCode for India – seamless and ad-light. For radio vibes, tune BBC or local Zim stations. X tip: “Stream on FanCode, no regrets! #ZIMvAFG”.
Grab your popcorn – who’s your stream squad? Comment your setup!
Toss Tactics: Prediction and Game-Changer Impact
Toss time: 1:00 PM local. In this balanced day game, it’s a coin flip – but we’ve crunched the numbers. Afghanistan edges it at 55% odds, thanks to Rashid’s pitch-reading smarts. Bat first? Zim’s home call; chase? AFG’s specialty.
Impact table:
| Toss Outcome | Likely Choice | Historical Win % at HSC | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zim Wins Toss | Bat First | 52% | Fresh pitch for 160+ total; build on Test momentum |
| AFG Wins Toss | Bowl First | 48% (chase edge) | Spin trap in middle; low dew aids defense |
| Overall Toss Bias | 50-50 | Bat 1st: 50% | Minimal dew = no chase panic; strategy over luck |
From X: “Toss to Zim, bat deep! #ZIMvAFG”.
Toss thriller or flop? Predict yours!
Zimbabwe Squad Deep Dive and Probable XI
Zimbabwe’s squad screams balance – explosive tops, versatile mids, and pace punch. Post-Test heroics (Curran 121, Evans 5-fer), they’re firing. Strengths: All-round depth (Raza, Evans). Weak spots: Middle-order wobbles vs spin.
Full squad table:
| Player | Role | Key Stat (Recent) |
|---|---|---|
| Sikandar Raza (c) | Batting Allrounder | 14 wkts @5.97 econ (10 inns) |
| Brian Bennett | Allrounder | 482 runs @172.75 SR (10 inns) |
| Ryan Burl | Allrounder | Middle-order anchor |
| Graeme Cremer | Bowler | Spin veteran return |
| Brad Evans | Allrounder | 17 wkts @6.98 econ (9 inns) |
| Clive Madande (wk) | WK-Batter | Agile keeper |
| Tinotenda Maposa | Bowler | Pace prospect |
| Tadiwanashe Marumani | Top-Order Batter | 368 runs @131.89 SR (10 inns) |
| Wellington Masakadza | Bowler | Left-arm spin |
| Tony Munyonga | Allrounder | Utility bat |
| Tashinga Musekiwa | Batting Allrounder | Power hitter |
| Blessing Muzarabani | Bowler | 3/47 vs AFG Test |
| Dion Myers | Top-Order Batter | Solid opener |
| Richard Ngarava | Bowler | 5/33 Day 3 Test |
| Brendan Taylor (wk) | WK-Batter | Experience sub |
Probable XI: Marumani, Bennett, Myers, Raza (c), Burl, Madande (wk), Munyonga, Evans, Ngarava, Muzarabani, Masakadza. Subs: Cremer (spin), Musekiwa (bat impact).
Raza on leadership: “Home soil, our fire!”
Your XI tweak?
Afghanistan Squad Breakdown and Likely Lineup
Afghanistan’s arsenal? Spin supernova (Khan, Mujeeb, Noor) meets batting flair. Post-Test slump (127 all out twice), they’re rebounding with Zadran/Omarzai hitting 100th caps. Strengths: Mystery spin. Weak: Pace depth sans injuries.
Squad table:
| Player | Role | Key Stat (Recent) |
|---|---|---|
| Rashid Khan (c) | Bowling Allrounder | 17 wkts @6.17 econ (9 inns); #1 ODI bowler |
| Abdollah Ahmadzai | Bowler | Emerging pacer |
| Azmatullah Omarzai | Allrounder | 583 runs/27 wkts ODIs 2024+ @49 avg; 100th int’l |
| Bashir Ahmad | Bowler | Spin backup |
| Darwish Rasooli | Top-Order Batter | Steady accumulator |
| Fareed Ahmad | Bowler | Slingy left-arm |
| Ibrahim Zadran | Opening Batter | 3,609 runs @40.1 avg; 100th int’l |
| Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai | Allrounder | Utility |
| Mohammad Nabi | Allrounder | Veteran finisher |
| Mujeeb Ur Rahman | Bowler | Returnee mystery |
| Noor Ahmad | Bowler | 11 wkts @6.35 econ (8 inns) |
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk) | WK-Batter | Explosive opener; 37 in Test |
| Sediqullah Atal | Opening Batter | 283 runs @128 SR (9 inns) |
| Shahidullah | Batting Allrounder | Lower-order punch |
| Sharafuddin Ashraf | Allrounder | Part-time spin |
Probable XI: Zadran, Atal, Gurbaz (wk), Rasooli, Nabi, Omarzai, Ashraf, Khan (c), Fareed, Mujeeb, Noor. Subs: Shahidullah (bat), Bashir (spin).
Khan: “Spin our strength!” ACB squad announcement.
Dream AFG XI?
Stars to Watch: 4 Must-See Players with Stats
These four could flip the script in the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025. From Zim’s rising rockets to AFG’s ranking rockets, here’s the spotlight squad. Stats fresh from recent romps.
Player table:
| Player (Team) | Role/Why Watch? | Recent Stats Table | X-Factor Quote |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brian Bennett (ZIM) | Explosive Opener | Inns: 10 | Runs: 482 | Avg: 48.2 | SR: 172.75 (3 fifties last 5) | “Bennett’s fire starts – 49 in last AFG clash!” – Fan on X |
| Tadiwanashe Marumani (ZIM) | Power Top-Order | Inns: 10 | Runs: 368 | Avg: 40.89 | SR: 131.89 (150+ at HSC) | “Marumani’s slogs = Zim’s edge” |
| Sediqullah Atal (AFG) | Consistent Anchor | Inns: 9 | Runs: 283 | Avg: 35.38 | SR: 128.05 (72* vs BAN) | “Atal steadies the storm” – ACB post |
| Rashid Khan (AFG) | Spin Maestro | Inns: 9 | Wkts: 17 | Econ: 6.17 | SR: 12.7 (#1 ODI bowler) | “Rashid’s googly nightmare!” |
Bennett vs Noor? Electric. Poll: Vote MOTM pick here. Rashid’s ICC profile.
Who dazzles? Tell us!
Head-to-Head Heat: Last 5 Clashes Table
ZIM vs AFG T20Is? AFG leads 18-10 overall, but Harare evens it (Zim 3-4). Last series? AFG stole 2-1 in Dec 2024, with thrillers galore. Rashid owns 22 wkts @5.8 econ vs Zim.
Last 5 table:
| Date | Result | Margin | Venue/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 14, 2024 | AFG Won | 3 wkts (chase 191) | Harare; Last-ball drama |
| Dec 13, 2024 | AFG Won | 50 runs (def 215) | Harare; Nabi heroics |
| Dec 11, 2024 | Zim Won | 4 wkts (chase 190) | Harare; Bennett 49* |
| Jun 14, 2022 | AFG Won | 35 runs | -; Spin strangle |
| Jun 12, 2022 | AFG Won | 21 runs | -; Khan masterclass |
AFG avg 1st inns: 174; Zim: 150. Full H2H archive. X: “Zim’s home revenge? #ZIMvAFG”.
Revenge or repeat?
Recent Form Fireworks: Last 5 Matches Breakdown
Zim’s on fire post-qualifiers and Test triumph; AFG’s rebuilding after BAN ODIs whitewash but Test woes.
Zim last 5 table:
| Date | Opponent/Event | Result | Key Performer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 4, 2025 | Namibia (Final) | Won by 7 wkts (4 balls left) | Bennett 60* |
| Oct 2, 2025 | Kenya (Semi) | Won by 7 wkts (30 balls left) | Raza 45 & 2/20 |
| Sep 30, 2025 | Tanzania (Group) | Won by 113 runs | Marumani 80 |
| Sep 28, 2025 | Botswana (Group) | Won by 170 runs | Evans 4/15 |
| Sep 26, 2025 | Uganda (Group) | Won by 5 wkts (15 balls left) | Myers 50 |
Form: WWWWW – Unbeaten streak!
AFG last 5 table:
| Date | Opponent/Event | Result | Key Performer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 5, 2025 | BAN (3rd T20I) | Lost by 6 wkts (12 balls left) | Khan 2/25 |
| Oct 3, 2025 | BAN (2nd T20I) | Lost by 2 wkts (5 balls left) | Omarzai 40 |
| Oct 2, 2025 | BAN (1st T20I) | Lost by 4 wkts (8 balls left) | Gurbaz 55 |
| Sep 18, 2025 | SL (Asia Cup) | Lost by 6 wkts (8 balls left) | Zadran 30 |
| Sep 16, 2025 | BAN (Asia Cup) | Lost by 8 runs | Nabi 3/28 |
Form: LLLLL – Batting blues, but spin sharp.
Zim’s streak vs AFG’s slump? Fireworks ahead. AFG’s ODI rankings surge.
Form flipper?
Winning Edge: Our Bold Prediction and Tips
Zim favorites at 55% – home turf, hot streak, balanced attack trump AFG’s rust. Expect Zim to post 168/6, AFG 155/8. MOTM: Bennett (quick 60+).
Prediction table:
| Scenario | Predicted Outcome | Odds/Why |
|---|---|---|
| Winner | Zimbabwe | 55%; Home + form |
| Scoreline | Zim 168/6 | AFG 155/8 |
| MOTM | Brian Bennett | 60+ runs; X-factor |
| Betting Tips | Zim win toss & bat; Over 320 runs; Bennett top scorer | Low-risk; Check responsible betting |
X prediction: “Zim by 10 runs! #ExperienceZimbabwe”. Poll: Your winner?.
Dare to differ?
Epic Battles: 3 Rivalries That Could Steal the Show
- Raza vs Khan: All-round titans – Raza’s 14 wkts vs Khan’s 17. Who outsmarts? “Captain’s duel!” – Fan buzz.
- Bennett vs Noor: Power (172 SR) vs mystery spin (11 wkts). Early fireworks?
- Gurbaz vs Muzarabani: Aggro opener (Test 37) vs express pace (3/47). Slogs or slips?
These could define the decider. Raza profile.
Battle bet?
Fan Buzz from X: What the Crowd Says
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 X is ablaze! ACB’s squad drop got 596 likes: “Rashid, Azmat, Ibrahim – milestones! #AfghanAtalan”. ZimPod’s XI: 51 likes, “Cremer for turn!”. Test updates: Ngarava’s 5-fer hailed.
Join the convo: #ZIMvAFG – tag us!
Quick Hits to Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 Your Burning Questions
When is Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025?
October 29, 2025, 1:30 PM local at Harare.
Where to watch ZIM vs AFG live streaming?
FanCode for India; Willow for USA.
What’s the pitch like at Harare Sports Club?
Balanced; spin-friendly middle, 160 par.
Who will win ZIM vs AFG 1st T20I?
Zim 55% – home edge.
Key players to watch?
Bennett, Khan – stats in table above.
Weather for the match?
Sunny, 24-30°C, 0% rain.
Head-to-head record?
AFG leads 18-10; last 5: AFG 4-1.
More Qs? Comment!
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan T20I Series 2025 Preview.
Wrap-Up: Why This T20I Could Be Legendary
The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025? It’s more than a game – it’s redemption, rivalry, and rising stars under Harare’s sun. Zim’s streak meets AFG’s spin storm in a clash that screams T20 chaos. From Bennett’s blasts to Khan’s knots, expect edges-of-seats stuff.
Follow live on FanCode, share your takes, and subscribe to IPL Star for series updates. Who’s lifting the opener? Sound off below – let’s make this preview interactive!
FAQs for Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 Preview
1. When is Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025?
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 is scheduled for Wednesday, October 29, 2025, starting at 1:30 PM local time (11:30 AM GMT | 5:00 PM IST) at Harare Sports Club. Toss at 1:00 PM local.
2. Where to watch ZIM vs AFG 1st T20I 2025 live streaming in India?
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 In India, live streaming is exclusively on FanCode (app & website). No TV broadcast. Subscription starts at ₹99 per match. HD quality, ball-by-ball updates, and replays included.
3. What is the pitch report for Harare Sports Club in ZIM vs AFG T20I 2025?
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 Harare pitch offers early seam movement, turns into a spin-friendly track in middle overs, and becomes batting paradise in death. Par score: 160–170. Low dew (day game) makes batting first favorable. Spinners expected to take 70% wickets.
4. Who will win Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025?
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 Zimbabwe are 55% favorites due to:
- Unbeaten 5-match T20 streak
- Historic Test win over Afghanistan
- Strong home record at Harare Predicted scoreline: ZIM 168/6 beat AFG 155/8.
5. What is the head-to-head record between ZIM and AFG in T20Is?
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 Afghanistan leads 18–10 in 28 T20Is. At Harare: AFG 4, ZIM 3. Last 5 matches:
| Date | Winner | Margin |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 14, 2024 | AFG | 3 wkts |
| Dec 13, 2024 | AFG | 50 runs |
| Dec 11, 2024 | ZIM | 4 wkts |
| Jun 14, 2022 | AFG | 35 runs |
| Jun 12, 2022 | AFG | 21 runs |
6. Who are the top players to watch in ZIM vs AFG 1st T20I 2025?
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 Zimbabwe:
- Brian Bennett – 482 runs @ 172.75 SR (10 inns)
- Brad Evans – 17 wkts @ 6.98 econ Afghanistan:
- Rashid Khan – 17 wkts @ 6.17 econ
- Sediqullah Atal – 283 runs @ 128.05 SR
7. What is the weather forecast for Harare on October 29, 2025?
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 Sunny & dry.
- Temperature: 24–30°C
- Humidity: 40–55%
- Rain chance: 0%
- Wind: 8–12 km/h NE breeze Perfect conditions for a full T20I.
8. What is the probable playing XI for Zimbabwe and Afghanistan?
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 Zimbabwe XI: Marumani, Bennett, Myers, Raza(c), Burl, Madande(wk), Munyonga, Evans, Ngarava, Muzarabani, Masakadza Afghanistan XI: Zadran, Atal, Gurbaz(wk), Rasooli, Nabi, Omarzai, Ashraf, Rashid(c), Fareed, Mujeeb, Noor Ahmad
9. Will dew affect the ZIM vs AFG 1st T20I 2025 at Harare?
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025 No significant dew impact.
- Match starts at 1:30 PM local (day game)
- Ends before 5:00 PM
- Low humidity + no evening moisture = balanced contest
10. Where can I watch ZIM vs AFG 1st T20I 2025 live outside India?
| Region | Platform |
|---|---|
| USA/Canada | Willow TV |
| UK | FanCode International |
| Africa | SuperSport |
| Global | YouTube (Zim Cricket highlights), ESPNcricinfo live blog |
Got more questions about Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 1st T20I 2025? Drop them in the comments below and join the IPL Star cricket community! 🚀 #ZIMvAFG #T20I2025