look news india
Harare, 30 October (HS). Zimbabwe and Afghanistan will play two Test matches in Bulawayo – the first starting on Boxing Day (December 26) and the second early in the new year (January 2), the boards of both countries announced in a joint statement on Tuesday.
This will be the first time in 28 years that Zimbabwe will host a Boxing Day Test. Afghanistan's tour will begin in Harare with three T20Is and as many ODIs, after which the Afghan team will be invited for two Test matches.
“The Boxing Day and New Year Test matches are iconic cricket matches that we are delighted to add to our calendar this festive season and we look forward to continuing one of the finest traditions in the game’s long history,” Zimbabwe Cricket president Tavengwa Mukuhlani said in a statement. Looking forward to celebrating in a grand manner. “Ahead of the Test series in Bulawayo, we will start with a few T20I and ODI matches in Harare to round out the tour, which is a clear demonstration of our commitment to improving our game across all formats.”
On the announcement of the series, Afghanistan Cricket Board chief Mirwais Ashraf said, “The tour of Zimbabwe across all formats is an important event for us. “We have a rich history with Zimbabwe, and playing there is always challenging, but I am confident that this is a challenge that Afghan Atalan can face with confidence.”
Tour Schedule:
9 December – 1st T20 match, Harare
11 December – 2nd T20 match, Harare
12 December – 3rd T20 match, Harare
15 December – 1st ODI, Harare
17 December – 2nd ODI, Harare
19 December – 3rd ODI, Harare
26–30 December – 1st Test, Bulawayo
2-6 January – 2nd Test, Bulawayo