New Delhi, Oct 30: Rashid Khan, Afghanistan’s premier leg-spinner, has etched his name in the history books, becoming the first bowler to take 200 wickets in men’s T20 Internationals, in the second T20I against Zimbabwe at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
The Afghan spinner reached the milestone when he dismissed Zimbabwe wicketkeeper-batsman Tadiwanashe Marumani, who scored just two runs while chasing a target of 222.
The 200-wicket milestone has also put Rashid at the top of the all-time T20I wicket-takers’ list. Rashid made his international debut against Zimbabwe in October 2015 and became the format’s leading wicket-taker in September 2025, overtaking New Zealand’s Tim Southee during a tri-series match against the UAE in Sharjah.
Rashid’s achievement came on a memorable night for Afghanistan, who recovered from a disastrous start to post 221/7.
Omarzai Produces Stunning Comeback to Power Afghanistan to 221
Afghanistan found themselves in deep trouble at 5/4 before Azmatullah Omarzai turned the game around with a sensational knock of 116 off just 50 deliveries. His innings featured five boundaries and 12 towering sixes, as he rescued the hosts from a disastrous start.
Omarzai found an able partner in Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai, with the duo stitching together a remarkable 142-run partnership for the sixth wicket in just 59 balls. Ijaz played an impressive supporting role, scoring 52 off 27 deliveries. Rashid Khan provided the finishing flourish with an unbeaten 25 off just six balls, helping Afghanistan post a formidable 221/7. Brad Evans and Kundai Matigimu picked up two wickets apiece for Zimbabwe.
In response, Zimbabwe mounted a spirited chase, led by skipper Sikandar Raza, who registered his second T20I century. Despite his efforts, the visitors finished 19 runs short of the target. Afghanistan’s Rashid shared a warm embrace with Raza after the match, reflecting the close friendship between the two, who had also caught up before the game.
Zimbabwe’s revamped opening pair of Brian Bennett and Takudzwanashe Kaia provided a steady start, while debutant Tafadzwa Tsiga offered support to Raza. However, Ryan Burl’s early departure disrupted their momentum.
With this victory, Afghanistan extended their remarkable record against Zimbabwe, securing their eighth consecutive T20I series win over the African side.