Overview of Zim vs Afg Dream 11 Prediction 1st T20I 2025
The 2025 T20 International season opens with a fascinating clash between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan, two teams on contrasting trajectories but with equal hunger to start their campaign on a winning note. Zimbabwe will be playing in front of a passionate home crowd at the Harare Sports Club, while Afghanistan — known for their dynamic all-rounders and world-class spin duo — will aim to assert their dominance early in the series.
This match is more than just a bilateral fixture — it’s a chance for Zimbabwe to prove their growth in the shortest format and for Afghanistan to fine-tune their combinations ahead of global tournaments. Fantasy cricket fans, too, have plenty to look forward to, as both teams boast players who can deliver big Dream11 points with both bat and ball.
Match Details: Date, Time, and Venue
- Match: Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan, 1st T20I
- Series: Afghanistan Tour of Zimbabwe 2025
- Date: October 29, 2025
- Time: 5:00 PM Local / 11:30 AM GMT
- Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
This match will test both sides’ adaptability, especially with the conditions expected to favor both spin and seam at different stages.
Zim vs Afg Pitch Report & Weather Conditions
Harare Sports Club Pitch Analysis
The Harare surface generally begins with a hint of movement for the pacers before flattening out. As the game progresses, the pitch tends to grip a little, offering spin bowlers an opportunity to make an impact, especially in the second innings.
Historically, teams batting first at Harare have enjoyed a slight advantage. The average first-innings score in the last five T20Is here stands around 163 runs, while successful chases have usually required exceptional partnerships.
Expected Weather on Match Day
Cricket fans can expect perfect playing conditions. The forecast predicts clear skies, minimal humidity, and gentle evening breezes. With temperatures ranging from 22°C to 26°C, dew is unlikely to be a major factor.
However, since Harare is located at an elevation, the ball tends to travel further — an exciting prospect for power hitters like Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Sikandar Raza.
Head-to-Head Record: Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan in T20Is
Overall Performance Comparison
| Teams | Matches | Wins | Losses | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Afghanistan | 14 | 11 | 3 | 0 |
| Zimbabwe | 14 | 3 | 11 | 0 |
Afghanistan clearly dominates this rivalry, thanks to their superior spin resources and consistent batting lineup. But Zimbabwe have improved in recent years, especially with the emergence of young talents like Tadiwanashe Marumani and Brian Bennett.
Recent Encounters and Form Guide
- Afghanistan defeated Zimbabwe 3-0 in their last T20 series.
- Zimbabwe have recently drawn against Ireland and Bangladesh at home, showcasing growing confidence.
Both sides have a blend of youth and experience, but Afghanistan’s balance gives them the upper hand.
Team Preview and Probable Playing 11
Zimbabwe Probable Playing XI
- Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk)
- Brian Bennett
- Dion Myers
- Sikandar Raza (c)
- Ryan Burl
- Brad Evans
- Wellington Masakadza
- Blessing Muzarabani
- Richard Ngarava
- Clive Madande
- Tony Munyonga
Zimbabwe’s strength lies in their all-rounders and experienced campaigners like Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl. Their top order is aggressive but sometimes inconsistent, which means the middle order has to stabilize the innings.
Afghanistan Probable Playing XI
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Mohammad Nabi
- Darwish Rasooli
- Rashid Khan (c)
- Azmatullah Omarzai
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Noor Ahmad
- Fareed Ahmad Malik
- Abdullah Ahmadzai
- Sharafuddin Ashraf
Afghanistan’s lineup is loaded with match-winners. The presence of Rashid Khan, Nabi, and Mujeeb provides unparalleled control in the middle overs. Their batting depth is also noteworthy — Omarzai and Nabi can both accelerate when needed.
Key Players to Watch Out For
Top Batters
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz: One of the most explosive openers in T20 cricket. His ability to dominate the powerplay makes him a Dream11 essential pick.
- Sikandar Raza: Zimbabwe’s captain and talisman, equally capable with bat and ball. He thrives in pressure situations.
- Ibrahim Zadran: A consistent performer who can anchor innings and accelerate when needed.
Top Bowlers
- Rashid Khan: Afghanistan’s trump card. His variations and control often baffle even the best batters.
- Blessing Muzarabani: His pace and bounce could trouble Afghanistan’s top order early on.
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman: Known for his deceptive spin during the powerplay overs.
Zim vs Afg Dream 11 Prediction: Fantasy Team Analysis
Zim vs Afg Dream 11 Prediction Team 1 (Safe Team)
| Role | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | Rahmanullah Gurbaz |
| BAT | Ibrahim Zadran, Raza, Burl |
| ALL | Nabi, Omarzai |
| BOWL | Rashid Khan, Mujeeb, Muzarabani, Ngarava, Masakadza |
Captain: Rashid Khan
Vice-Captain: Sikandar Raza
👉 This lineup focuses on consistent point-getters — ideal for head-to-head or small leagues.
Zim vs Afg Dream 11 Prediction Team 2 (Grand League Team)
| Role | Player |
|---|---|
| WK | T Marumani |
| BAT | Rasooli, Myers, Bennett |
| ALL | Raza, Nabi |
| BOWL | Rashid, Mujeeb, Evans, Ngarava, Noor Ahmad |
Captain: Mohammad Nabi
Vice-Captain: Rahmanullah Gurbaz
👉 This team is designed for higher risk and higher reward leagues — picking underdogs who could deliver surprise performances.
Zim vs Afg Dream 11 Prediction – Fantasy Cricket Tips
- Always include at least one Afghan spinner in your lineup — Rashid or Mujeeb can change games in a few overs.
- Sikandar Raza is a must-pick as an all-rounder; he rarely leaves a game without contributing.
- Avoid too many Zimbabwean bowlers in grand leagues; Afghanistan’s batters play spin and pace effectively.
- Select players who bat in the top 4 — they get maximum opportunities to score.
- Teams batting first at Harare have a 60% win record — pick bowlers from the defending side.
Pro Tip: Teams bowling first at Harare tend to have a better win ratio.
Pitch Strategy and Winning Combinations
Best Batting Order and Bowling Attack
Batting first can be advantageous here, but a steady start is crucial. Openers who can see off the new ball and accelerate later tend to succeed.
Bowlers should vary their pace, using slower deliveries and cutters. Expect spinners to dominate the middle overs. The team that controls the 10–15 over phase will likely dictate the game’s outcome.
Powerplay and Death Over Specialists
Death Overs: Ngarava & Nabi
Powerplay Bowlers: Muzarabani & Omarzai
Middle Overs: Rashid Khan & Wellington Masakadza
Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today’s T20I?
Team Strength Analysis
Zimbabwe: Depend heavily on Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl. Their bowling is disciplined but lacks express pace depth.
Afghanistan: Boasts a world-class spin trio and power hitters capable of clearing any boundary.
Win Probability
| Team | Win % |
|---|---|
| Afghanistan | 65% |
| Zimbabwe | 35% |
Expert Opinion
Afghanistan’s balance and depth give them a clear edge, but Zimbabwe’s home advantage can’t be overlooked. Expect a competitive game if Zimbabwe bats first and posts above 160.
Predicted Winner: Afghanistan
Zim vs Afg Dream 11 Prediction– Differential Picks
- Brian Bennett: An emerging Zimbabwean star who plays spin well.
- Noor Ahmad: A mystery spinner who could exploit the dry surface.
- Azmatullah Omarzai: A game-changer with both bat and ball, perfect for grand leagues.
Zim vs Afg Dream11 Prediction FAQs
1. Who will win today’s ZIM vs AFG T20 match?
Afghanistan are favorites, given their experience and spin power.
2. What is the best Dream11 captain choice for this match?
Rashid Khan or Sikandar Raza are the best options.
3. What is the pitch report for Harare Sports Club?
Balanced pitch — good for batting early, but assists spin in the second innings.
4. Which players should you avoid in Dream11?
Avoid inexperienced middle-order batters from either side.
5. What time does ZIM vs AFG 1st T20I start?
It begins at 5:00 PM Local / 11:30 AM GMT on October 29, 2025.
6. Where can I watch the match live?
You can follow the live score and commentary on ESPNcricinfo or the official ICC app.
Visit ESPNcricinfo
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan Dream11 Prediction
The Zim vs Afg Dream 11 Prediction showcases how evenly contested this series opener could be. Afghanistan’s polished bowling attack gives them the upper hand, but Zimbabwe’s home crowd and improving batting lineup could make things interesting.
Fantasy players should focus on all-rounders and spinners — the true game-changers in Harare conditions. Rashid Khan’s brilliance, Raza’s resilience, and Nabi’s finishing power make this a must-watch match for cricket fans and Dream11 enthusiasts alike.
In short:
- Safe Team Captain: Rashid Khan
- Differential Captain: Mohammad Nabi
- Game Changer: Sikandar Raza
Expect fireworks, tactical brilliance, and high fantasy scores in this enthralling T20I!vantage. For fantasy players, all-rounders and spinners remain key to scoring maximum Dream11 points.
If Zimbabwe bat first and score above 160, expect a close finish — otherwise, Afghanistan are likely to seal a comfortable win.
