Zimbabwe’s Under-19 team booked their place in the tri-series final after registering a hard-fought 19-run victory over Afghanistan at the Sunrise Sports Club, Harare, on Wednesday.
After winning the toss and opting to field, Afghanistan made an impressive start with the ball, dismissing Zimbabwe’s top order early to leave the Young Chevrons struggling at 17 for 2.
However, Dhruv Patel anchored the innings with a calm and well-paced knock of 60 runs off 74 balls, which included six fours and a six, to stabilize the batting.
Patel found solid support from Brendon Senzere, who contributed a patient 38 from 68 deliveries, while Tatenda Chimugoro added crucial late runs with a quick 23 to push Zimbabwe to a competitive total of 185.
Afghanistan’s bowling attack was led by Salam Khan Ahmadzai, who took 4 for 32 in nine overs.
Hafeez Zadran also picked three wickets to keep Zimbabwe in check.
In reply, Afghanistan showed early promise in the chase, with captain Mahboob Khan leading from the front with a fighting 49.
Osman Sadat added momentum with a brisk 35, but the batting lineup failed to build sustained partnerships.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers responded with discipline and intensity, led by 15-year-old Webster Madhidhi, whose outstanding figures of 3 for 20 proved decisive.
He was well supported by Shelton Mazvitorera (2 for 38) and Brendon Senzere (2 for 37), as Afghanistan were bowled out for 166 in the 41st over.
Nooristani Omarzai remained unbeaten on 18 but received little support from the lower order.
Nathaniel Hlabangana captained Zimbabwe in the absence of regular skipper Simbarashe Mudzengerere, who was sidelined due to injury.
Zimbabwe are still scheduled to face Pakistan for the second time in the tournament.
However, with Afghanistan now out of contention, Pakistan are well placed to join Zimbabwe in the final.