Introduction:

Afghanistan continued their impressive run at the Cricket World Cup 2023 with a third straight win, defeating Zimbabwe by 100 runs in Lucknow. A half-century from Rahmanullah Gurbaz and an unbeaten 83 from Najibullah Zadran helped Afghanistan to post a total of 250/8 in their allotted 50 overs. Zimbabwe were then bowled out for 150 runs in 40 overs, with Rashid Khan picking up four wickets.

Gurbaz and Zadran star for Afghanistan

Gurbaz and Zadran put on a fine partnership for the second wicket, scoring 120 runs together. Gurbaz was dismissed for 75 runs off 62 balls, but Zadran continued to bat positively and reached his half-century off 55 balls. He went on to score an unbeaten 83 runs off 78 balls, and he was the key to Afghanistan’s victory.

Rashid Khan takes four wickets.

Rashid Khan was once again the star of the show with the ball, picking up four wickets for just 25 runs. Khan is one of the best bowlers in the world, and he is proving to be a handful for batsmen at the Cricket World Cup 2023.

Gurbaz and Shahidi Give Afghanistan a Solid Start

Gurbaz and Shahidi put on a 120-run opening partnership for Afghanistan, setting the platform for a big total. Gurbaz scored 75 runs off 62 balls, while Shahidi scored 50 runs off 65 balls. Both batsmen played aggressive cricket, and they took advantage of the Dutch bowlers’ wayward bowling.

Zadran Provides Late Flourish

Zadran came to the crease with Afghanistan in a good position at 150/2, and he accelerated the scoring rate in the final overs. He scored 120 runs off 109 balls, and he hit 10 fours and 4 sixes. Zadran’s knock helped Afghanistan to finish on a strong total of 285 runs.

Afghanistan Batsmen Set Up Victory

Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat, and they got off to a good start thanks to a half-century from Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Gurbaz scored 75 runs off 62 balls, and he was ably supported by Hashmatullah Shahidi, who scored 50 runs off 65 balls. Najibullah Zadran then came in and played a blistering knock, scoring 120 runs off 109 balls, including 10 fours and 6 sixes. Afghanistan eventually finished on 285 runs in their allotted 50 overs.

Afghanistan Bowlers Wrap Up Victory

Afghanistan’s bowlers were just as impressive as their batsmen, with Rashid Khan picking up four wickets for just 25 runs. Khan was the standout bowler for Afghanistan, but he was well supported by the other bowlers, who all picked up at least one wicket. The Netherlands were eventually bowled out for 202 runs in 49.4 overs, giving Afghanistan a comfortable 83-run victory.

Conclusion:

Afghanistan’s win over Zimbabwe was a dominant display, and they are now one of the favorites to win the Cricket World Cup 2023. They have a strong batting line-up and a world-class bowling attack, and they will be difficult to beat.