Afghanistan take advantage with heavy win over Zimbabwe

Afghanistan have taken control of their T20 series against Zimbabwe thanks to a 45-run victory over Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi.

Asghar Afghan’s side won the toss and elected to bat and began the match slowly, slipping to 9-1 in the second over but a stand of 102 between Karim Janat (53) and Usman Ghani (49) set the team on their way.

Mohammad Nabi (40) came in towards the end, hitting the ball to all parts, scoring his 40 runs in just 15 balls, getting the side towards the 200 mark as they finished on 193-5 from their 20 overs.

Afghanistan began superbly with the ball, reducing their opponents to 56-5 in the seventh over to all but end the contest, although they were given some hope as Ryan Burl (40) and Donald Tiripano (24) shared 62 for the sixth wicket to add some respectability to the score.

However, once both players were dismissed the home side quickly wrapped up the innings in the 18th over to secure a victory by 45 runs.

Leg Spinner Rashid Khan (3-30) was the pick of the bowlers as he helped his side to take the victory in the opening game of the series.

The two sides will meet in the final match tomorrow at the same stadium, beginning at 10:00am UK time.

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