Afghanistan will take on Zimbabwe in the first Test of the two-match series, beginning on November 5 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The hosts will head into the longer format with plenty of confidence after registering a convincing 3-0 clean sweep in the T20I series. Afghanistan will look to carry their winning momentum into the Test series, while Zimbabwe will aim to bounce back and start their UAE tour on a positive note. Brian Bennett has been appointed Zimbabwe's captain for the series in the absence of regular skipper Richard Ngarava, who is sidelined with a back injury.

Zimbabwe have also recalled veteran leg-spinner Graeme Cremer, who returns to Test cricket after nearly eight years. With Sharjah expected to offer assistance to spinners, Afghanistan's bowling attack could prove crucial in deciding the outcome of the contest.

AFG vs ZIM 1st Test Pitch Report:

The surface at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium is expected to be dry and favourable for spin bowling, particularly as the match progresses. Batters could enjoy decent conditions during the initial stages, provided they spend time at the crease and adjust to the surface. Spinners are likely to come into play from Day 2 onwards as the pitch starts to wear and offer more turn. Afghanistan's spin attack could therefore be a major threat to Zimbabwe's batting lineup. Pacers may get some assistance with the new ball, but their influence is expected to be limited. There is no significant rain threat forecast for the match, so uninterrupted play is expected. The team winning the toss may prefer to bat first and make the most of the fresh batting conditions.

Head-to-Head Records in Tests

Matches Played: 5

Afghanistan Won: 1

Zimbabwe Won: 2

Draw: 2

Afghanistan Predicted XI: Abdul Malik, Sediqullah Atal, Shahidullah Kamal, Rahmat Shah (C), Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ikram Alikhil (WK), Ismat Alam, Yamin Ahmadzai, Qais Ahmad, Zia-ur-Rehman Akbar, Mohammad Saleem Safi.

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