Hamza finished with figures of 4-17 off 7.5 overs
Image courtesy of: Zimbio
Afghanistan left-arm spinner Amir Hamza ripped through Zimbabwe’s batting line-up with four wickets, while Noor Ali Zadran scored 63 to lead their side to a 49-run win in the first ODI in Sharjah.
Afghanistan captain Asghar Stanikzai would have been mulling over his decision to bat first as Zadran was the only batsman to make a major contribution.
Zadran scored 63 off 82 balls, which included eight boundaries, while Mohammad Nabi and Najibullah Zadran were the only other batsmen to reach double figures. As a result, Afghanistan were bundled out for 131.
Zadran raises his bat after bringing up his half-century
Image courtesy of: Zimbio
Graeme Cremer was the pick of the bowlers with five wickets, while Taurai Muzarabani, Wellington Masakadza, Sikandar Raza and Chamu Chibhabha chipped in with one wicket apiece.
Defending a small score of 131, Afghanistan dug deep and put up a spirited performance, which saw them carve through Zimbabwe’s batting line-up.
Zimbabwe were unable to mount any sort of counter-attack and were left humilated and embarrassed as they were skittled out for a dismal score of 82.
Hamza was the most successful bowler with four wickets, while Nabi snapped up three and Mirwais Ashraf claimed two.
Hamza was named Man of the Match.