Afghanistan registered an emphatic win over Zimbabwe in the ODI tri-series final.

Rashid Khan took 3/41, while Ibrahim Zadran scored an unbeaten 70 in the summit clash.

Afghanistan produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat Zimbabwe by seven wickets in the final of the UAE ODI Tri-Series 2026 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday, October 23. Rashid Khan led the bowling attack with three wickets, while Ibrahim Zadran delivered a composed unbeaten half-century to guide Afghanistan to the title.

After winning the toss, Zimbabwe elected to bat first but struggled against Afghanistan’s disciplined bowling unit.

Rashid Khan leads Afghanistan’s bowling dominance

Zimbabwe’s innings never gained the momentum needed to put Afghanistan under pressure. The top order struggled against the new ball, with Fazalhaq Farooqi and Bilal Sami making early inroads.

Farooqi finished with figures of 2/41, while Sami claimed 2/27. Their breakthroughs left Zimbabwe searching for stability during the powerplay and prevented the visitors from building a strong foundation.

Captain Sikandar Raza attempted to rescue the innings, producing a determined knock of 68 from 83 deliveries. He struck three fours and three sixes, showing patience while looking for opportunities to accelerate. Ryan Burl provided support with 31 off 45 balls, and the pair added 60 runs to give Zimbabwe a chance of recovery.

However, Mohammad Nabi broke the partnership by dismissing Burl and went on to finish with two wickets for 25 runs. Rashid then took control, claiming three wickets for 41 runs in his 10 overs.

Rashid dismissed Brad Evans, bowled Newman Nyamhuri and eventually ended Raza’s resistance. Zimbabwe’s lower order offered some late resistance, but Afghanistan wrapped up the innings at 169.

Ibrahim Zadran anchors the successful chase

Chasing 170 for the championship, Afghanistan began positively through Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran. The opening pair added 68 runs, putting the team in a comfortable position before Gurbaz departed for 36 off 31 deliveries. His innings included four fours and two sixes.

Zimbabwe briefly threatened to create pressure when Newman Nyamhuri dismissed both Gurbaz and Sediqullah Atal, who scored six. Afghanistan were 80/2, but Zadran remained composed and ensured the chase stayed on course.

Rahmat Shah joined him and played an important supporting role. The pair added 82 runs for the third wicket, rotating the strike effectively and avoiding unnecessary risks. Rahmat scored 43 from 63 balls before Wessly Madhevere dismissed him.

By then, Afghanistan were firmly in control. Zadran remained unbeaten on 70 from 96 deliveries, striking four boundaries and one six. Hashmatullah Shahidi contributed an unbeaten seven as Afghanistan reached 170/3 in 34.3 overs, winning with seven wickets and 93 balls remaining.

Rashid Khan named Player of the Series

Rashid’s influence extended beyond the final. He finished the tri-series with 11 wickets in three matches, earning the Player of the Series award for his outstanding performances.

Zadran was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 70, which ensured Afghanistan completed the chase without allowing Zimbabwe a realistic opportunity to fight back.

The victory also highlighted Afghanistan’s strength across departments. Their fast bowlers provided early breakthroughs, Nabi and Rashid controlled the middle overs, and the batting line-up chased the target with patience.

Afghanistan finish the tri-series as Champions

The title triumph was a reward for Afghanistan’s consistent performances throughout the tournament. They combined disciplined bowling with reliable batting and showed composure when the pressure increased.

For Zimbabwe, Raza’s fighting innings was a positive, but the lack of substantial contributions from the other batters proved costly. Their total of 169 was not enough to challenge an Afghanistan side that found its rhythm.

Afghanistan secure a comprehensive 7-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the Tri-series final 🔥👏#AFGvZIM #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/7eMS2YLSfg

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) October 24, 2026

Afghanistan will now look to carry this momentum into their upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe, scheduled to begin on October 27.