Afghanistan hold a narrow edge with a 53% win probability against 47% for Zimbabwe in this Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe match prediction for the 2nd match of the UAE ODI Tri-Series. AFG bring strong recent form and a spin-led attack that suits conditions in Abu Dhabi, while ZIM arrive confident after a 99-run win over Bangladesh. This preview covers the pitch, weather, head-to-head record, squads and the key players to back for your fantasy cricket tips.
Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Match Details
Match | Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe | 2nd Match | UAE ODI Tri-Series |
Date | 19/10/2026 (Monday) |
Time | BDT 5:30 PM / PKT 4:30 PM / INR 5:00 PM |
Format | ODI |
Venue | Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi |
Recent performance | Afghanistan – A W W W W, Zimbabwe – L L L L W |
AFG vs ZIM UAE ODI Tri-Series 2026: Live Streaming & Broadcast Info
Fans can follow this tri-series fixture live on the platforms below, though broadcast details may vary by region.
- Pakistan: A Sports (TV), Tamasha (Live Streaming)
- India: FanCode (Live Streaming)
- USA & Canada: Willow TV (TV), Willow by Cricbuzz (Live Streaming)
- United Kingdom: Sport TV (TV), Sport Central (Live Streaming)
- Bangladesh: T Sports (TV), Tapmad (Live Streaming)
- Worldwide: Matches available via Sports Live Hub for global streaming access across regions.
Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Toss Prediction
Afghanistan are predicted to win the toss and bat first. A fresh surface should reward a big opening total, and AFG’s spinners can then squeeze ZIM in the chase. Dew could ease batting later in the day, but a score near 300 still builds heavy pressure. Expect Afghanistan to back their batters and let Rashid Khan control the middle overs.
Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi Pitch Report
No pitch details were supplied for this game, so treat early assumptions with caution. Surfaces in the UAE generally offer some help to stroke-makers early, with grip for spinners as the innings wears on. This pitch report points to a competitive contest, with the side batting first likely to aim for a total close to 300. Check conditions at the toss before finalising your selections.
Weather Report
No weather report was supplied, so confirm the forecast closer to the first ball. The match starts in the afternoon local time, so heat may test fielders early, while dew could appear late in the second innings if it arrives at all. That would help the chasing side and make grip harder for spinners. Rain is rarely a concern in the UAE, so a full 50-over contest is expected.
AFG vs ZIM Head-to-Head Records
Matches Played | 31 |
AFG Won | 20 |
ZIM Won | 10 |
Tied | 0 |
No Result | 1 |
First-ever Fixture | July 18, 2014 |
Most-recent Fixture | December 21, 2024 |
Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Team Preview & Squads
Afghanistan
Rahmat Shah leads Afghanistan, and his calm approach suits a side that has found a winning rhythm. As captain and listed all-rounder, he is expected to steer the middle overs and rotate his bowlers sensibly. Their last outing at Belfast showed real composure, chasing 299 and finishing on 302/4 with seven balls to spare.
Ibrahim Zadran is the key batter and our pick for both top run-scorer and most sixes for Afghanistan. The 302/4 against Ireland showed depth in the order, and a score of 300-plus is predicted here. If the top order gets through the new ball, AFG can build or chase with confidence.
Rashid Khan headlines the bowling and is our choice for Player of the Match and top wicket-taker. With Rahmat Shah adding all-round balance, Afghanistan can mix spin and pace as conditions demand. Protecting a total on a true surface is the main challenge, but their variety remains a major asset.
Afghanistan Squads:
Rahmat Shah, Azmatullah Omarzai, Bilal Sami, Fazalhaq Farooqi, AM Ghazanfar, Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ibrahim Zadran, Ikram Alikhil, Mohammad Nabi, Nangeyalia Khan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rashid Khan, Sediqullah Atal, Yamin Ahmadzai, Ziaur Rahman
Zimbabwe
Sikandar Raza captains Zimbabwe and doubles as the key all-rounder, giving the side leadership in the field and runs in the middle. The 99-run win over Bangladesh, defending 271/8 and bowling them out for 172, has lifted spirits after a run of four defeats. His tactical calls will face a stern test against Afghanistan’s spinners.
Craig Ervine’s 93 off 106 balls earned him Player of the Match against Bangladesh, while Brendan Taylor is listed as the key batter. Raza is our predicted top run-scorer and most-sixes hitter for Zimbabwe, with a total of 290-plus expected. ZIM need a solid start to keep pace with Afghanistan.
Brad Evans is the key bowler, while Blessing Muzarabani is tipped as the top wicket-taker. Raza’s all-round skills add flexibility, and Zimbabwe will hope their bowlers repeat the discipline that dismissed Bangladesh for 172. Early wickets will be vital against a strong Afghan batting line-up.
Zimbabwe Squads:
Sikandar Raza, Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Ben Curran, Craig Ervine, Brad Evans, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Vincent Masekesa, Ernest Masuku, Blessing Muzarabani, Newman Nyamhuri, Brendan Taylor, Tafadzwa Tsiga
AFG vs ZIM Prediction
Event | Afghanistan | Zimbabwe |
Toss Winner | Afghanistan | – |
Player of the Match | Rashid Khan | – |
Top Run Scorer | Ibrahim Zadran | Sikandar Raza |
Top Wicket Taker | Rashid Khan | Blessing Muzarabani |
Most Sixes | Ibrahim Zadran | Sikandar Raza |
Predicted Score | 300+ | 290+ |
Win Probability | 53% | 47% |
Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Winning Prediction
Afghanistan are our predicted winners with a 53% win probability, backed by their head-to-head dominance, strong recent form and the spin threat of Rashid Khan. Zimbabwe’s 47% reflects genuine danger after a convincing win over Bangladesh, so this Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe match prediction expects a tight contest. Who do you think takes the points? Follow JeetBuzz for more match updates, stats and expert analysis throughout the UAE ODI Tri-Series.
FAQ: UAE ODI Tri-Series 2026 2nd Match
Q1. What time does Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe start in India?
The match begins at 5:00 PM IST on October 19, 2026.
Q2. Who was Player of the Match in Zimbabwe’s last game?
Craig Ervine won the award for his 93 off 106 balls against Bangladesh.
Q3. What was Afghanistan’s result in their last match?
Afghanistan beat Ireland by 6 wickets in the 5th ODI at Belfast on August 15, 2026.