Twitter reactions: Zimbabwe stuns Afghanistan in a last-ball thriller to win the 1st T20I

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Zimbabwe registered a nail-biting 4-wicket victory over Afghanistan in the 1st T20I at Harare. Chasing a target of 145, Zimbabwe reached 145/6 with no balls to spare. Brian Bennett anchored the innings with a composed 49 off 49, earning him the Player of the Match award. Earlier, Afghanistan posted 144/6, led by Karim Janat‘s unbeaten 54 and Mohammad Nabi‘s quickfire 44. Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Richard Ngarava (3/28), kept Afghanistan in check. Despite losing wickets at crucial moments, Zimbabwe’s lower order, guided by Tashinga Musekiwa‘s unbeaten 16, ensured a thrilling finish, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.

Afghanistan sets a modest target with performance from Mohammad Nabi and Karim Janat

Batting first after winning the toss, Afghanistan managed 144/6 in their 20 overs. The innings started poorly as Rahmanullah Gurbaz fell for a duck, and Sediqullah Atal and Mohammad Ishaq followed cheaply. However, Janat played a vital knock, remaining unbeaten on 54 off 49 balls, supported by Nabi’s blazing 44 off 27 deliveries. The duo added stability to the innings, ensuring a competitive total. Zimbabwe’s bowlers, especially Ngarava (3/28), consistently struck at crucial moments to keep Afghanistan’s run rate in check.

Brian Bennett anchors Zimbabwe’s chase

Zimbabwe’s chase of 145 revolved around Bennett’s steady 49 off 49 balls. Despite early hiccups, with Tadiwanashe Marumani falling for 9, Bennett held the innings together. His partnerships with Dion Myers (32) and others kept Zimbabwe on track. The hosts faced a middle-order wobble, but Bennett’s resilience ensured they remained in the game. Naveen-ul-Haq‘s 3/33 and Rashid Khan’s 2/26 tested Zimbabwe’s batters, but Bennett’s knock provided the foundation for victory.

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG 2024: Date, Match Time, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

Thrilling finish seals the game for Zimbabwe

The match went down to the wire, with Zimbabwe needing 17 off the last two overs. Musekiwa (16 not out) and Wellington Masakadza (6 not out) held their nerves, ensuring the team crossed the line off the final ball. Afghanistan’s bowlers, especially Rashid, created pressure, but Zimbabwe’s lower order rose to the occasion. This thrilling win gave Zimbabwe a 1-0 lead in the series and showcased their ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG 2024: Afghanistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Zimbabwe

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