Afghanistan and Zimbabwe collide in Sharjah on Thursday for the first of two Tests, marking the venue’s return to the format after a decade-long absence. The ground, which last hosted a Test in 2016 when West Indies chased down 154 against Pakistan, has since staged 76 men’s white-ball matches. This fixture is critical for both sides, who currently sit outside the World Test Championship, as ICC meetings next weekend will determine the tournament’s expansion. Zimbabwe, who played ten Tests in 2025 but only one in 2026, face Afghanistan, who are playing their fourth Test of the year in their busiest calendar yet, lacking a proper home ground.
Rahmat Shah’s side favored to edge Brian Bennett’s men in a high-stakes Sharjah showdown.
Team selections reflect significant squad changes for both nations. Zimbabwe will likely debut Antum Naqvi, the Belgian-born batter who has scored six centuries in 24 first-class matches, while Brian Bennett captains the side due to Richard Ngarava’s back injury and the absence of Sikandar Raza. Afghanistan, coming off a draw with Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi, are missing key players Rashid Khan, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Ibrahim Zadran. Consequently, Rahmat Shah leads a squad that must rely on depth and tactical discipline to navigate the unfamiliar pitch conditions.
Analysts predict Afghanistan are the likelier winners, though the margin may be narrow given Zimbabwe’s recent exposure to Test cricket. The Sharjah pitch, known for its white-ball dominance, will test the patience of both batting lineups and the accuracy of the bowling attacks. With Afghanistan seeking to solidify their status as a rising Test force and Zimbabwe aiming to maintain their competitive edge, this encounter promises a tight contest where fielding and middle-order resilience will likely decide the outcome.
Source: Yahoo Sports
