Afghanistan will look to maintain their dominance over Zimbabwe when the sides meet in the second T20I of their three-match series at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday, October 29, 2026. Led by Ibrahim Zadran, Afghanistan enter the contest with a strong spin attack and several explosive batting options, while Sikandar Raza’s Zimbabwe will aim to challenge the favourites and level the series.
The match is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM IST, with the toss expected at 7:30 PM IST. The contest will take place at Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah, UAE.
AFG vs ZIM 2nd T20I Match Details
Date: Thursday, October 29, 2026
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah
Start time: 8:00 PM IST
Afghanistan captain: Ibrahim Zadran
Zimbabwe captain: Sikandar Raza
AFG vs ZIM Match Prediction: Who Will Win?
Prediction: Afghanistan to win.
Afghanistan start as favourites, thanks to their impressive record against Zimbabwe in T20 internationals and the quality of their bowling attack. Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad and Mujeeb Ur Rahman can make life difficult for Zimbabwe’s batters, particularly if the surface offers grip and turn.
Afghanistan also possess match-winners in Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran and Azmatullah Omarzai. If their top order provides a solid start, they have the firepower to post a competitive total or chase down a target.
Zimbabwe, however, cannot be discounted. Captain Sikandar Raza remains central to their hopes, while Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl and Blessing Muzarabani could influence the result. Zimbabwe’s best chance will be to attack early with the bat and take wickets in the powerplay.
Our pick: Afghanistan have the stronger overall balance and are tipped to win, although the toss and conditions could influence the contest.
AFG vs ZIM Head-to-Head Record in T20Is
Afghanistan have enjoyed a commanding advantage over Zimbabwe in T20 internationals. Available head-to-head records list Afghanistan with 13 wins and Zimbabwe with two victories from 15 meetings. This record underlines Afghanistan’s historical edge, but it does not guarantee the outcome of the upcoming match.
Zimbabwe will need a disciplined performance with both bat and ball to close the gap. Afghanistan, meanwhile, will aim to turn their superior record into another result.
AFG vs ZIM 2nd T20I Pitch Report
The match will be played at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, a venue where batters can score quickly when they settle in, but the relatively compact boundaries also make shot selection and bowling discipline important.
The surface can offer opportunities for stroke-makers, while spinners may come into the game as the innings progresses. Afghanistan could benefit from the presence of several quality spin options, but Zimbabwe’s batters will look to use the powerplay to build momentum before the field spreads.
The toss could be significant. Teams may prefer to assess the conditions early and decide whether chasing offers an advantage. The final approach will depend on the surface prepared for the match and the conditions on the evening.
AFG vs ZIM Probable Playing XIs
Afghanistan:Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran (c), Sediqullah Atal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Shahidullah Kamal, Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai, Mohammad Akram, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi.
Zimbabwe: Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Wessly Madhevere, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk), Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Newman Nyamhuri, Blessing Muzarabani.
AFG vs ZIM 2nd T20I Live Streaming
India: The match is expected to be available for live streaming on FanCode. Check the platform’s match listing for confirmation of coverage and subscription requirements.
Afghanistan: Ariana Television is listed as the television broadcaster, with streaming expected through the Etisalat app.
North America: Willow TV is listed as a viewing option.
Pakistan: A Sports and Tamasha are listed as broadcast and streaming options, respectively.
Broadcast availability may vary by territory, so viewers should check their local listings before the match.
Players to Watch
Rashid Khan (Afghanistan): His control, variations and ability to take wickets in the middle overs make him a major threat to Zimbabwe.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan): A fast start from Gurbaz could give Afghanistan the momentum needed to dictate the innings.
Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe): Zimbabwe’s captain can influence the game with both bat and ball and will be central to the visitors’ hopes.
Brian Bennett (Zimbabwe): His contribution at the top of the order could determine whether Zimbabwe build a competitive total.
Final Verdict
Afghanistan have the stronger head-to-head record and a bowling attack well suited to controlling the middle overs. Zimbabwe have enough individual quality to make the contest competitive, but they will need a near-complete performance to upset the favourites.
Match prediction: Afghanistan to win the 2nd T20I
