In a historic announcement, the Zimbabwe Cricket Board confirmed that Zimbabwe will host its first Boxing Day Test in 28 years, with Afghanistan set to visit. Initially, the bilateral tour was planned as a white-ball series, but both boards agreed to add two Test matches, with the opening game scheduled for December 26.
Zimbabwe and Afghanistan, while not traditionally strong cricketing nations, have both worked hard to achieve Test status and find success in international cricket. Despite facing challenges such as inadequate facilities, both teams have demonstrated resilience and determination. Their upcoming series marks a significant milestone for both nations.
Originally, Afghanistan’s tour included three T20I and ODI matches, with the T20Is set for December 9, 11, and 12, and the ODIs on December 15, 17, and 19, all taking place at Harare Sports Club. However, the two cricket boards recently agreed to extend the tour by adding two Tests to promote the format, culminating in this historic series.
The last Boxing Day Test hosted by Zimbabwe was in 1996 against England. In 2000, Zimbabwe played a match in New Zealand on the eve of Boxing Day. This upcoming Test series not only signifies a return to this traditional format but also highlights Zimbabwe’s commitment to revitalizing red-ball cricket.
Additionally, Zimbabwe will host its first-ever New Year’s Test, with the second match scheduled for January 2-6. Both games will take place at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, marking the beginning of a new era in Zimbabwean Test cricket and providing fans with exciting matches to look forward to.
Leave a Reply