Afghanistan win last ODI to level series

BULAWAYO: Batsman Shafiqullah Shafiq and bowler Sharafuddin Ashraf starred as Afghanistan beat Zimbabwe by 100 runs in Bulawayo Thursday to draw a four one-day international series.

Wicketkeeper Shafiqullah top scored with 56 runs off 43 balls as the Afghans compiled 259 in 49.1 overs at Queens Sport Club.

Samiullah Shenwari (40), Nasir Jamal (39) and Mohammad Nabi (37) also made useful contributions while seamer Donald Tiripano (5-63) was the lone Zimbabwe bowler to excel.

Zimbabwe, who won the first two matches by six wickets and eight wickets before losing the third by two wickets, were always battling in reply.

Only Richmond Mutumbami with 64 runs off 75 balls, including eight fours, made an impression and the hosts were bundled out for 159 in 38 overs.

Off-spinner Ashraf took 3-29 and his victims included Mutumbami.

Both countries are preparing for the Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next February and March. (AFP)