Zimbabwe Crushed By Afghanistan As Atal Century Powers 158-Run Defeat

Zimbabwe suffered a heavy 158-run defeat against Afghanistan in the second ODI of the UAE Tri-Nation Series after struggling with both bat and ball at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Monday.

Chasing 295 for victory, the Chevrons were bowled out for just 136 in 38.4 overs, handing Afghanistan a convincing win built around Sediqullah Atal’s century and a disciplined bowling performance.

Afghanistan, who elected to bat first, posted 294 all out in their allotted 50 overs, with Atal leading the charge with an impressive 102 off 110 deliveries. His innings included eight fours and a six.

Ibrahim Zadran also played a crucial role, scoring 90 from 96 balls, including nine fours and two sixes. The pair combined for a century partnership that put Afghanistan in a strong position before Zimbabwe claimed wickets during the closing stages.

Despite taking six wickets in the final 10 overs, Zimbabwe were unable to prevent their opponents from reaching a competitive total.

The Chevrons endured a disastrous start to their chase, losing three wickets inside the opening eight overs and reaching just 33/3 after the first 10 overs. The situation deteriorated further when they slipped to 43/4 in the 13th over.

Captain Sikandar Raza attempted to revive the innings alongside Ryan Burl, with the pair putting together a 64-run partnership for the fifth wicket.

Raza top-scored with 48 from 80 deliveries, including three fours and a six, while Burl contributed 31 off 63 balls. However, their efforts were insufficient to bring Zimbabwe back into contention as Afghanistan continued to take wickets at regular intervals.

Zimbabwe eventually collapsed to 136 all out, with Afghanistan’s bowlers completing a dominant performance.

The result will be a setback for the Chevrons following their 99-run victory over Bangladesh in their opening match of the tri-series.

Zimbabwe will now need to regroup and address their batting struggles as they continue their campaign in Abu Dhabi.