Harare, Oct 29 (UNI) Afghanistan began their tour of Zimbabwe in emphatic fashion, clinching a commanding 53-run victory in the first T20 International at the Harare Sports Club today.

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Afghanistan posted a challenging total of 180 for six in 20 overs, powered by half-century from Ibrahim Zadran (52 off 33 balls) and Rahmanullah Gurbaz (39 off 25). The duo added 76 runs for the opening wicket, giving Afghanistan a flying start in the Powerplay.

Despite a mid-innings wobble triggered by Zimbabwe skipper Sikandar Raza’s triple strike (3/20), late cameos from Shahidullah (22 not out off 13) and captain Rashid Khan (8 not out off 5) ensured a strong finish.

For Zimbabwe, (3/20) Raza was the standout with the ball, while Blessing Muzarabani picked

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