Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025 – what a rollercoaster of a match that turned into a dominant display by the hosts! At the Harare Sports Club, Zimbabwe scripted a fairy-tale ending on October 22, 2025, crushing Afghanistan by an innings and 73 runs. This wasn’t just any win; it marked Zimbabwe’s first home Test victory in 12 years since 2013 and their first innings triumph since 2001 – a whopping 24-year wait for such a commanding result. For cricket fans tuning into “IPL Star,” your go-to spot for niche cricket updates, this game was a reminder of Test cricket’s raw thrill.
Imagine the scene: Overcast skies in Harare, a pitch offering seam movement, and Zimbabwe’s pacers on fire. Afghanistan, back in Test action after eight months, showed rustiness with batting collapses that handed the game to the hosts. Ben Curran’s composed century set the foundation, while Richard Ngarava’s maiden five-wicket haul sealed the deal on Day 3. If you’re a fan wondering how Zimbabwe pulled off this historic feat, stick around. We’ll dive into the Day 3 recap, must-see highlights, player breakdowns, stats in easy-to-read tables, captains’ reactions, records shattered, and what this means for both teams moving forward.
This match, part of the Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe 2025, wasn’t just about runs and wickets. It highlighted Zimbabwe’s revival in red-ball cricket and Afghanistan’s ongoing challenges in the format. With the T20I series kicking off on October 29, this Test sets the stage for more excitement. Ready to relive the drama? Let’s break it down.
Day 3 Recap: Afghanistan’s Swift Collapse Under Zimbabwe’s Pace Assault
Day 3 of the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025 started with high hopes for the visitors, but it ended in heartbreak. Resuming at 34/1 and trailing by 198 runs, Afghanistan needed a miracle to force a draw or even a comeback. Instead, Zimbabwe’s seamers turned the morning into a nightmare, wrapping up the innings in under three hours for a comprehensive innings win.
The day began under cloudy skies at Harare Sports Club, perfect for seam bowling. Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine surprised everyone by handing the new ball to Tanaka Chivanga instead of Blessing Muzarabani. It paid off immediately. In his third over, Chivanga got Rahmanullah Gurbaz (9) to flick one down the leg side, where keeper Tafadzwa Tsiga took a sharp catch.
Richard Ngarava then joined the party. He mirrored the dismissal, trapping Ibrahim Zadran (42) with a similar leg-side delivery that Tsiga pouched again. Zadran had looked solid with five boundaries, top-scoring for Afghanistan, but his exit at 59/3 was a body blow. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (7) didn’t last long, edging a full ball from Ngarava to Ervine at slip.
Bahir Shah (32) and Afsar Zazai (18) tried to steady the ship with a 49-run stand for the fifth wicket. Shah was aggressive, smashing six fours in his counter-attack. But Muzarabani struck with a bouncer that Shah fended to fine leg, where Ben Curran swooped in for the catch. Zazai followed soon after, chipping Chivanga to backward point. By lunch, Afghanistan were reeling at 127/6.
Post-lunch, the sun came out, but Afghanistan’s luck didn’t change. Ismat Alam (16) edged Ngarava to Tsiga, who pulled off a stunning one-handed diving catch – a moment that drew gasps from the crowd. Sharafuddin Ashraf (9) edged to second slip, giving Ngarava his fifth wicket and maiden Test five-for (5/37).
Yamin Ahmadzai (13*) and Khalil Gurbaz (6) added a few boundaries in defiance, but Muzarabani cleaned up the tail. He flattened Gurbaz’s leg stump and yorked Ziaur Rahman Sharifi (0) in the 43rd over, ending the innings at 159. Zimbabwe had won with two days to spare, their bowlers relentless and the fielding electric.
This session showcased Zimbabwe’s strategy: Exploit the conditions with short balls and consistent lines. Afghanistan’s batters, lacking Test experience, played loose shots and failed to build partnerships. It was a clinical finish that left fans buzzing – was this the start of Zimbabwe’s Test resurgence?
Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 2025 Test: Must-See Highlights That Defined the Match
Highlights from the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025 are pure gold for cricket lovers. From stunning catches to game-changing spells, Day 3 had it all. Let’s list the top moments that made this match unforgettable.
- Ngarava’s Maiden Five-Wicket Haul (5/37): The left-armer was unplayable, swinging the ball both ways. His dismissals of Zadran and Shahidi down the leg side set the tone. The fifth wicket – Ashraf’s edge to slip – had the Harare crowd on their feet. Watch this spell if you love pace bowling magic!
- Tsiga’s One-Handed Wonder Catch: Diving to his right, Tsiga grabbed Alam’s edge off Ngarava. It was a highlight-reel moment, drawing comparisons to the best keepers in the game.
- Muzarabani’s Tail-End Destruction: With figures of 3/48 (match: 6/95), his yorker to Sharifi was pinpoint. He cramped batters with bounce, ending the match emphatically.
- Zadran’s Fighting 42: Amid the collapse, Ibrahim Zadran’s measured strokes, including a pull across the line, showed class. But it wasn’t enough to save Afghanistan.
- Shah’s Counter-Attack (32 with 6 Fours): Bahir Shah’s aggressive boundaries briefly lifted Afghanistan, but his fend off Muzarabani’s bouncer ended the resistance.
- Curran’s Century from Day 2: Though not Day 3, his 121 (15 fours) anchored Zimbabwe’s 359. It earned him Player of the Match and swung the game.
- Sharifi’s Debut 7/97: Afghanistan’s lone bright spot – the seamer’s spell dismantled Zimbabwe’s middle order.
- Group Photo Moment: Zimbabwe’s squad posed before Day 3, signaling confidence. It became iconic after the win.
For visuals, check out YouTube highlights like “Zimbabwe Crush Afghanistan by an Innings” for full replays. Which highlight was your favorite – Ngarava’s fifer or Tsiga’s catch? Vote in the comments below!
In-Depth Analysis: Key Performances That Powered Zimbabwe’s Dominance
Diving deeper into the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025, let’s analyze the standout players. This in-depth look reveals why Zimbabwe triumphed and where Afghanistan faltered.
Richard Ngarava: The Star of Day 3 At 27, Ngarava emerged as Zimbabwe’s hero with his maiden Test five-for (5/37). His left-arm pace generated movement without exaggeration – relentless and accurate. In overcast conditions, he targeted the corridor, forcing edges and leg-side glances. Compared to his previous Tests, this was a breakthrough, signaling his growth as Zimbabwe’s lead seamer. Could he be the next big thing in African cricket?
Blessing Muzarabani: Consistent Threat Muzarabani’s 6/95 match figures were clinical. Tall and bouncy, he troubled batters with short balls and yorkers. His 3/48 in the second innings wrapped up the tail efficiently. Often unlucky, as Ervine noted, Muzarabani’s economy (4.00) showed control. He’s Zimbabwe’s premier fast bowler, with potential for more hauls.
Ben Curran: The Anchor with a Maiden Ton Returning from injury, Curran’s 121 off 256 balls was disciplined – 15 fours, no risks. Partnerships with Raza (99 runs) and others built a 232-run lead. As Player of the Match, he credited coaching changes. This knock addresses Zimbabwe’s top-order woes, reminiscent of past stars like Andy Flower.
Ziaur Rahman Sharifi: Afghanistan’s Debut Gem On debut, Sharifi’s 7/97 was exceptional – best by an Afghan newcomer. Mixing pace and swing, he dismantled Zimbabwe’s lineup. Shahidi praised his domestic form, hinting at a long career. Despite the loss, Sharifi’s spell was a positive.
Ibrahim Zadran: Lone Warrior Zadran’s 42 (and 19 in first innings) showed technique, but lack of support hurt. His pulls were pristine, but Afghanistan needs him to convert starts.
Underperformers and Team Tactics Afghanistan’s batting averaged 14.3, with collapses (9 for 50 in first, 6 for 50 in second) due to inexperience. Zimbabwe’s four-seamer attack exploited the pitch perfectly. Ervine’s toss decision and short-ball plan were spot-on.
Overall, Zimbabwe’s balance – batting depth and bowling fire – overwhelmed Afghanistan’s rust. Fan reactions on X praised the “Chevrons’ pride,” with posts like “Led by maiden fifers and century!”
Match Statistics: Scorecards and Key Numbers Breakdown
Stats tell the story of Zimbabwe’s dominance in the One-off Test 2025. Here’s everything in tables for easy reading.
Afghanistan 1st Innings Scorecard
| Batter | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | SR | Dismissal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ibrahim Zadran | 19 | 23 | 4 | 0 | 82.61 | c Welch b Muzarabani |
| Abdul Malik | 30 | 40 | 2 | 0 | 75.00 | run out (Welch/Tsiga) |
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz | 37 | 37 | 3 | 0 | 100.00 | c Raza b Chivanga |
| Hashmatullah Shahidi (c) | 7 | 14 | 1 | 0 | 50.00 | c Welch b Evans |
| Bahir Shah | 12 | 30 | 1 | 0 | 40.00 | c Bennett b Muzarabani |
| Afsar Zazai (wk) | 1 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 33.33 | c Tsiga b Evans |
| Ismat Alam | 8 | 16 | 1 | 0 | 50.00 | c Tsiga b Muzarabani |
| Sharafuddin Ashraf | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | c Chivanga b Evans |
| Yamin Ahmadzai | 10 | 15 | 2 | 0 | 66.67 | not out |
| Khalil Gurbaz | 2 | 13 | 0 | 0 | 15.38 | c Tsiga b Evans |
| Ziaur Rahman Sharifi | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | b Evans |
| Extras | 1 (lb 1) | |||||
| Total | 127/10 (32.3 overs, RR: 3.91) |
Bowling: Evans 5/22, Muzarabani 3/47, Chivanga 1/29, Ngarava 0/28.
Zimbabwe 1st Innings Scorecard
| Batter | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | SR | Dismissal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brian Bennett | 6 | 9 | 1 | 0 | 66.67 | b Sharifi |
| Ben Curran | 121 | 256 | 15 | 0 | 47.27 | lbw b Alam |
| Nick Welch | 49 | 89 | 5 | 1 | 55.06 | b Sharifi |
| Brendan Taylor | 32 | 43 | 6 | 0 | 74.42 | b Sharifi |
| Craig Ervine (c) | 5 | 8 | 1 | 0 | 62.50 | lbw b Alam |
| Sikandar Raza | 65 | 88 | 7 | 0 | 73.86 | c Ahmadzai b Ashraf |
| Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk) | 17 | 52 | 2 | 0 | 32.69 | lbw b Sharifi |
| Brad Evans | 35 | 48 | 4 | 1 | 72.92 | not out |
| Richard Ngarava | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | b Sharifi |
| Blessing Muzarabani | 5 | 10 | 1 | 0 | 50.00 | b Sharifi |
| Tanaka Chivanga | 5 | 16 | 1 | 0 | 31.25 | lbw b Sharifi |
| Extras | 19 (b 5, lb 11, w 1, nb 2) | |||||
| Total | 359/10 (103 overs, RR: 3.49) |
Bowling: Sharifi 7/97, Alam 2/51, Ashraf 1/65, Ahmadzai 0/62.
Afghanistan 2nd Innings Scorecard
| Batter | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | SR | Dismissal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ibrahim Zadran | 42 | 59 | 5 | 0 | 71.19 | c Tsiga b Ngarava |
| Abdul Malik | 2 | 11 | 0 | 0 | 18.18 | c Muzarabani b Ngarava |
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz | 9 | 29 | 0 | 0 | 31.03 | c Tsiga b Chivanga |
| Hashmatullah Shahidi (c) | 7 | 19 | 1 | 0 | 36.84 | c Ervine b Ngarava |
| Bahir Shah | 32 | 33 | 6 | 0 | 96.97 | c Curran b Muzarabani |
| Afsar Zazai (wk) | 18 | 36 | 2 | 0 | 50.00 | c Evans b Chivanga |
| Ismat Alam | 16 | 26 | 2 | 0 | 61.54 | c Tsiga b Ngarava |
| Sharafuddin Ashraf | 9 | 17 | 2 | 0 | 52.94 | c Ervine b Ngarava |
| Yamin Ahmadzai | 13 | 19 | 1 | 1 | 68.42 | not out |
| Khalil Gurbaz | 6 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 85.71 | b Muzarabani |
| Ziaur Rahman Sharifi | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 | b Muzarabani |
| Extras | 5 (b 2, lb 1, w 1, nb 1) | |||||
| Total | 159/10 (43 overs, RR: 3.70) |
Bowling: Ngarava 5/37, Muzarabani 3/48, Chivanga 2/40, Evans 0/28.
Key Match Stats
| Stat | Zimbabwe | Afghanistan |
|---|---|---|
| Total Runs | 359 | 286 (127 + 159) |
| Wickets Taken | 20 | 10 |
| Highest Scorer | Curran 121 | Zadran 42 (2nd inn) |
| Best Bowler | Evans 5/22 (1st inn) | Sharifi 7/97 |
| Partnerships (Top) | 99 (Curran-Raza) | 49 (Shah-Zazai) |
| Run Rate | 3.49 | 3.91/3.70 |
These numbers highlight Zimbabwe’s control – a massive lead and efficient bowling. What’s your takeaway from these stats?
Post-Match Reactions: Captains’ Honest Takes on the Epic Clash
Captains’ quotes often reveal the heart of a match. In the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025, they didn’t disappoint.
Craig Ervine (Zimbabwe Captain): “I’m ecstatic. A lot of credit to the boys for fighting hard and winning to end a tough year. The first hour wasn’t good, but the bowlers pulled things back. Ben’s innings was outstanding – full of composure. The wicket offered something throughout, and we’ve learned from recent Tests. Brad’s five-for in the first, Richie’s in the second – special. Earlier this year, we won in Sylhet after 14 years; now a home win here.”
Hashmatullah Shahidi (Afghanistan Captain): “They played good cricket; the ball seamed around. We didn’t play well. Started at 77/1 but collapsed. Lack of Test experience cost us – back-to-back wickets hurt. Day 1 is key for momentum. On Sharifi: He’s ready for Tests; hope he plays long.”
Ben Curran (Player of the Match): “Delighted with my performance and the win. Back from injury, under-cooked, but coaching changes worked.”
These reactions show Zimbabwe’s joy and Afghanistan’s regret over experience gaps. Do you agree with Shahidi on Test rust? Share below!
Historical Milestones: Records Shattered in ZIM vs AFG 2025 Test
This Test was history in the making. Here’s a look at the milestones.
- Zimbabwe’s first home Test win since 2013 (vs Bangladesh).
- First innings victory since 2001 (vs Bangladesh) – third ever by innings.
- Largest Test win by runs for Zimbabwe.
- Ngarava’s maiden Test five-for; first by a Zimbabwe left-armer at home since 2018.
- Curran’s maiden ton; first Zimbabwean top-order century at home since 2021.
- Sharifi’s 7/97: Best debut figures for Afghanistan, surpassing previous records.
- Zimbabwe’s 359: Highest home total since 2023.
- Afghanistan’s lows: 127 and 159 – worst consecutive innings since 2024.
Harare favored seamers, with 20 pace wickets. Average first-innings score: 220. Is this a turning point for Zimbabwe?
Future Outlook: What This Means for the Afghanistan Tour of Zimbabwe 2025
This win boosts Zimbabwe ahead of the T20Is starting October 29 at Harare. With momentum, expect their pacers to shine in shorter formats too.
For Afghanistan, it’s a wake-up call. Their Test rust (last game: February 2025) showed; they need more red-ball fixtures. Sharifi’s debut offers hope, but batting depth is key.
Globally, it highlights scheduling issues for associates. ICC should ensure more Tests. Will Afghanistan bounce back in T20Is? Predict in comments!
ESPNcricinfo for more stats.
Afghanistan Tour of Zimbabwe 2025 Preview Guide!
Conclusion: Zimbabwe’s Glorious Revival in Test Cricket
The Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025 ended with Zimbabwe’s historic 73-run innings triumph – a Day 3 masterclass in pace and patience. From Ngarava’s heroics to Curran’s ton, it was engaging cricket at its best.
For “IPL Star” readers, this recap and analysis celebrate the game’s spirit. Subscribe for more updates, share on social, and comment your thoughts!
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FAQs: Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025
1. What happened on Day 3 of the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025? On Day 3, Zimbabwe bowled out Afghanistan for 159 in their second innings, securing a historic innings victory by 73 runs. Richard Ngarava’s maiden five-wicket haul (5/37) and Blessing Muzarabani’s 3/48 led the charge, with Afghanistan collapsing from 34/1 to 127/6 by lunch. Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025 Key moments included Tafadzwa Tsiga’s stunning catches and Ibrahim Zadran’s 42.
2. Why was Zimbabwe’s win in the 2025 Test against Afghanistan historic? Zimbabwe’s innings and 73-run triumph marked their first home Test win since 2013 and first innings victory since 2001. It was also their largest Test win by runs, showcasing a revival in their red-ball cricket at Harare Sports Club.
3. Who were the standout performers in the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025? Richard Ngarava (5/37), Blessing Muzarabani (6/95 match figures), and Ben Curran (121, Player of the Match) shone for Zimbabwe. Afghanistan’s Ziaur Rahman Sharifi impressed with a debut 7/97, while Ibrahim Zadran scored 42 in the second innings.
4. What were the key highlights of the ZIM vs AFG Day 3 recap? Highlights included Ngarava’s five-for, Tsiga’s one-handed catch, Muzarabani’s tail-end yorkers, and Bahir Shah’s fighting 32. The match ended in under three hours on October 22, 2025, with Zimbabwe dominating at Harare.
5. How did Ben Curran’s century impact the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Test 2025? Ben Curran’s 121 off 256 balls in Zimbabwe’s first innings (359) built a 232-run lead, setting up the innings victory. His disciplined knock, with key partnerships, was pivotal and earned him the Player of the Match award.
6. What role did Richard Ngarava play in the ZIM vs AFG innings win? Ngarava’s maiden Test five-wicket haul (5/37) on Day 3 dismantled Afghanistan’s batting. His swing and accuracy, especially early dismissals of Zadran and Shahidi, broke the visitors’ resistance in the second innings.
7. How did Afghanistan perform in the One-off Test 2025 at Harare Sports Club? Afghanistan struggled, scoring 127 and 159 in their innings. Batting collapses and lack of Test experience hurt, though Ziaur Rahman Sharifi’s 7/97 and Ibrahim Zadran’s 42 showed promise.
8. What records were broken in the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025? Zimbabwe secured their first home Test win in 12 years, first innings win since 2001, and largest Test victory by runs. Sharifi’s 7/97 was Afghanistan’s best debut bowling, and Curran’s ton was a rare home milestone.
9. What’s next after the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Test 2025? The teams face off in a three-match T20I series starting October 29, 2025, in Harare. Afghanistan aims to rebound in their stronger format, while Zimbabwe carries momentum from the Test win.
10. Where can I watch highlights of the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan One-off Test 2025? Check YouTube for clips like “Zimbabwe Crush Afghanistan by an Innings” or visit ESPNcricinfo for video recaps. Follow IPL Star for more cricket updates and share your thoughts in the comments!
