Masakadza was named Man of the Match for his career-best bowling figures of 4-21 off 6.1 overs

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Zimbabwe produced a stunning bowling performance and opening batsman Chamu Chibhabha capped it off by making 58 to lead his side to a comprehensive eight-wicket win over Afghanistan in the first ODI in Bulawayo.

Afghanistan captain Asghar Stanikzai would have been mulling over his decision to bat first as none of his batsmen had a major impact. Najibullah Zadran and Dawlat Zadran were the top-scorers with 25 runs each, while wicketkeeper Mohammad Shahzad was the only other batsman to surpass the 20-run mark as he made 23.

With only one other batsman reaching double figures, it was no surprise when Afghanistan were bowled out for 122.

Wellington Masakadza was the pick of the bowlers with four wickets, while Luke Jongwe and debutant Tendai Chisoro chipped in with three wickets apiece.

Chasing 123 to win, Zimbabwe got off to a good start as Chibhabha and Richmond Mutumbami amassed a 53-run partnership before Mutumbami was caught behind off the bowling of Aftab Alam for 30.

Chibhabha went on to score 58 off 69 balls, which included four boundaries and a six, before he was caught by Najibullah Zadran off the bowling of Amir Hamza.

However, that was to be Afghanistan’s last taste of success as Craig Ervine and Tinotenda Mutombodzi mopped up the remaining runs to lead Zimbabwe to victory with 160 balls to spare.

Alam and Hamza claimed one wicket each.