AFG vs ZIM 1st Test Match: Live Streaming, Match Prediction, Pitch Report & Playing XI

Afghanistan will take on Zimbabwe in the first Test of their two-match series at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday, November 5, 2026. The series marks another important opportunity for both teams to strengthen their red-ball cricket, with Afghanistan aiming to build on their recent progress in the format.

Afghanistan enter the Test series after completing a 3-0 clean sweep in the T20I series against Zimbabwe. However, the longer format presents a different challenge, and the visitors will be eager to respond after their disappointing white-ball results in the UAE.

Match Details

Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe: Series Preview

Afghanistan will enter the opening Test with confidence after dominating Zimbabwe in the T20I series. They won all three matches, including the final game by seven wickets after bowling Zimbabwe out for just 79 runs.

However, Afghanistan will have a different combination for the longer format. Rahmat Shah will lead the Test side, while experienced players Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ikram Alikhil and Afsar Zazai are expected to play important roles.

Zimbabwe, meanwhile, will be led by Brian Bennett after regular captain Richard Ngarava was ruled out while recovering from a back injury. The visitors have also included experienced batters Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine, while veteran leg-spinner Graeme Cremer returns to Test cricket.

Afghanistan Team Preview

Afghanistan have several experienced players capable of making an impact in Test cricket. Rahmat Shah will be central to their batting plans, with Hashmatullah Shahidi expected to provide stability in the middle order.

Sediqullah Atal and Abdul Malik are likely to compete for opening positions, while Shahidullah Kamal offers another batting option after impressive performances in domestic first-class cricket.

Afghanistan’s bowling attack could be their biggest strength. Qais Ahmad and Zia Ur Rahman Akbar provide spin options, while Yamin Ahmadzai and Mohammad Saleem Safi will lead the pace attack. The conditions in Sharjah could give their spinners an important role as the match progresses.

Zimbabwe Team Preview

Zimbabwe will hope their experienced batting lineup can deliver a stronger performance in the Test format. Brian Bennett will captain the side, with Ben Curran, Craig Ervine and Brendan Taylor expected to form an important part of the batting order.

Antum Naqvi is another player to watch. He has earned his place in the squad after meeting the eligibility requirements to represent Zimbabwe and could make his Test debut.

Blessing Muzarabani will lead the pace attack, supported by Brad Evans and Newman Nyamhuri. The return of Graeme Cremer adds valuable experience to the spin department, while Wellington Masakadza and Vincent Masekesa provide further options.

Probable Playing XIs

Afghanistan: Abdul Malik, Sediqullah Atal, Shahidullah Kamal, Rahmat Shah (c), Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ikram Alikhil (wk), Ismat Alam, Yamin Ahmadzai, Qais Ahmad, Zia Ur Rahman Akbar, Mohammad Saleem Safi.

Zimbabwe: Ben Curran, Brian Bennett (c), Craig Ervine, Brendan Taylor, Wessly Madhevere, Antum Naqvi, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk), Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani.

Sharjah Cricket Stadium Pitch Report

The Sharjah surface is expected to offer assistance to spinners, particularly as the match progresses. Batters could find opportunities to score during the first innings, but the pitch may become increasingly challenging as it wears over the five days.

Afghanistan have a strong spin-bowling combination, which could give them an advantage in these conditions. Qais Ahmad and Zia Ur Rahman Akbar will be important players to watch, while Zimbabwe’s Graeme Cremer could also become a key figure.

Winning the toss and batting first could be a sensible option, allowing a team to take advantage of the fresher surface before spin becomes more influential.

Head-to-Head Record in Test Cricket

Afghanistan and Zimbabwe have played five Test matches against each other, with Zimbabwe holding a narrow advantage.

Their previous Test meetings have produced competitive contests, and both teams will be looking to take an early advantage in this two-match series.

Players to Watch

Rahmat Shah (Afghanistan): The Afghanistan captain will be one of the most important batters in the lineup. His experience and ability to build long innings could prove crucial.

Qais Ahmad (Afghanistan): The leg-spinner could enjoy the conditions in Sharjah. His ability to take wickets in the middle sessions may put Zimbabwe under pressure.

Brian Bennett (Zimbabwe): Leading the side in the absence of Richard Ngarava, Bennett will have an important responsibility with both the bat and as captain.

Graeme Cremer (Zimbabwe): His return to Test cricket adds experience to Zimbabwe’s bowling attack. The Sharjah surface could provide an ideal opportunity for the veteran leg-spinner to make an impact.

AFG vs ZIM 1st Test Live Streaming: Where to Watch

Cricket fans can follow the first Test through the following broadcast and streaming platforms:

• Afghanistan: Ariana Television Network and Etisalat app.

• India: FanCode.

• USA and Canada: Willow TV.

Match Prediction

Afghanistan will start the first Test as favourites, particularly after their dominant performances against Zimbabwe in the recent T20I series. Their spin-bowling options could be decisive on a Sharjah surface expected to assist slow bowlers.

Zimbabwe, however, have strengthened their Test squad with the inclusion of experienced players such as Brendan Taylor, Craig Ervine and Graeme Cremer. Brian Bennett will also be keen to make a positive start as captain.

The visitors have enough quality to challenge Afghanistan, but the hosts appear better suited to the expected conditions. Afghanistan are predicted to win the first Test, although Zimbabwe could make the contest competitive if their top order delivers.