On the fourth day of the second and final Test match at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s right-arm medium-fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani delivered a sensational performance including a fiery bouncer from Muzarabani dismissed Afghanistan’s all-rounder Rashid Khan.

Blessing Muzarabani’s lethal bouncer

In the 98th over of Afghanistan’s second innings ball delivered by Muzarabani, climbing sharply off a good length, caught Rashid off guard. In a defensive attempt, Rashid fended at the delivery, only for it to pop off his gloves into the hands of wicketkeeper Joylord Gumbie. Without waiting for the umpire’s decision, Rashid walked off, scoring 23 runs off 27 balls. This dismissal marked a historic milestone for Muzarabani, earning him his maiden five-wick??et haul in Test cricket.

Here is the video:

The first of many for Blessing Muzarabani! 👏🏻

Muzarabani ripped through the Afghan batting line-up to bag his first five-for in Tests 💪#ZIMvAFGonFanCode pic.twitter.com/Uu9yEKW1mW

— FanCode (@FanCode) January 5, 2025

Muzarabani’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. In Afghanistan’s second innings, the 28-year-old pacer scalped six wickets in 29 overs, including five maidens, at an impressive economy rate of 3.30. His efforts placed him in the record books with the eighth-best bowling figures in an innings for Zimbabwe in Test cricket. Adding to his first-innings tally of two wickets, Muzarabani finished the match with a remarkable total of eight ?dismissals, cementing his dominance in the series-deciding Test.

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Afghanistan’s fightback: Rashid Khan’s heroics with the ball

Despite Muzarabani’s heroics, Afghanistan remained in the contest thanks to Rashid’s stellar bowling performance. Rashid claimed six wickets in Zimbabwe’s second innings, maintaining his status as the game-changer for Afghanistan. His relentless attack left Zimbabwe reeling at 205 for 8 by the end of Day 4, still requiring 73 runs to s??ecure victory in the nail-biting decider.

Zimbabwe’s hope: Captain Craig Ervine stands tall

The only glimmer of hope for Zimbabwe lies in their skipper, Craig Ervine. Battling with resilience, Ervine remained unbeaten at stumps with a fighting 53 off 97 balls. His determined innings has kept Zimbabwe’s hopes alive, though the team faces an uphill?? battle with just two wickets in hand heading into the final?? day.

Also READ: Here’s the updated WTC 2023-25 points table after India loses the Border?-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia

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Rahmat Shah‘s masterful century anchored Afghanistan’s innings and turned the tide decisively in their favor on Day 3 of the ongoing Test match against Zimbabwe. Beg??inning the day in a precarious position at 46/3, Afghanistan faced immense pressure from a disciplined Zimbabwean bowling attack. However, Rahmat displayed extraordinary composure and technical prowess, navigating the challenges with remarkable precision.

His unbeaten innings of 139 runs was not just a personal milesto??ne but a testament to his ability to deliver under pressure. Supported by crucial partnerships, Rahmat ensured that Afghanistan transformed a shaky start into a commanding lead. Despite moments of brilliance with the ball, Zimbabwe failed to sustain their momentum as Afg?hanistan’s batters consolidated through the day. By stumps, Afghanistan had tightened their grip on the match with a lead of 205 runs, leaving Zimbabwe with a daunting task in the final innings.

Day 3 begins with Afghanistan on the back foot

The third day began with Afghanistan on the back foot, precariously placed at 46/3 and trailing Zimbabwe’s first-innings score. Zimbabwe’s pace attack, led by Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava, continued to extract movement from the surface, making life difficult for the Afghan batters in the morning session. The duo bowled with discipline, forcing Afghanistan to adopt a cautious approach to avoid further setbacks. Shahidullah partnered with ??R??ahmat to steady the innings, carefully considering the early threat.

However, Zimbabwe’s persistence paid off when Shahidullah fell to Muzarabani, caught by Takudzwanashe Kaitano. At 69/5, Afghanista?n was in a fragile position, but Rahmat’s determination became evident as he began to rebuild the innings with a calculated shot selection. By lunch, Afghanistan had reached 125/5, thanks to Rahmat’s unyielding focus, providing a glimmer of hope for a recovery.

Also WATCH: Sean Williams exhibits exceptional sportsmanship after being declared not out by the umpire on Day 2 of the second T??est

Rahmat Shah’s century anchors Afghanistan

Rahmat was the cornerstone of Afghanistan’s resurgence, playing an innings that will be remembered for its sheer grit and elegance. Facing relentless pressure from Zimbabwe’s bowlers, Rahmat initially adopted a defensive approach, ensuring no further wickets fell during his time at the crease. His partnership with Ismat Alam proved crucial as the duo add??ed 132 runs for the eight wicket, stabilizing the innings and frustrat??ing the opposition.

Rahmat’s shot selection was impeccable; he balanced solid defense with calculated aggression, punishing anything ov??er??pitched or wide. His century was a moment of pure class, reached with a stylish flick to square leg, bringing the entire Afghan dressing room to its feet in applause. The knock, spanning nearly five hours and featuring 14 boundaries, epitomized resilience and showcased his ability to adapt to the demands of Test cricket. Even after reaching the milestone, Rahmat continued to accumulate runs, ensuring Afghanistan moved into a position of strength.

Zimbabwe’s bowling falters in the final session

As the day wore on, Zimbabwe’s bowlers seemed to lose their earlier discipline and intensity, allowing Afghanistan to capitalize in the final session. Although Rahmat fell late in the day to Muzarabani, his dismissal did little to halt Afghanistan’s progress. The lower middle order, led by Rashid Khan and Alam, contributed vital runs, frustrating?? Zimbabwe furth?er. Alam, in particular, counter-attacked effectively, finding boundaries with ease and ensuring the scoreboard continued to tick over.

Zimbabwe had moments of success, with Muzarabani claiming key wickets and Ngarava keeping things tight, but they lacked the consistency required to bundle out Afghanistan cheaply. By the time stumps were called due to rain, Afghanistan had amassed 291/7, securing a significant lead that placed them firmly in control. With the pitch beginning to show signs of wear and tear, Zimbabwe now faces an uphill battle to sav??e the match, with their batters needing to negotiate a challenging Day 4 against a spirited Afghan bowling attack.

Rain has enforced early stumps on day 3 in Bu??lawayo as AfghanAtalan reached 291/7, leading by 205 runs.

Tomorrow morning, play will begin 30 minutes earlier at 12:00 PM (AFT). 👍#AfghanAtalan | #ZIMvAFG | #GloriousNationVictoriousTeam pic.twitter.com/aeNwpZWVtt

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) January 4, 2025

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On the second day of the second Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s middle-order batter Sean Williams demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship during the spell of Rashid Khan.

Sean Williams displays exemplary sportsmanship

In the 66th over of Zimbabwe’s innings, bowled by Afghanistan’s star leg-spinner Rashid, Williams was initially declared not out by the umpire following a loud appeal for a caught-behind dismissal. Despite the lack of a Decision Review System (DRS) in play, Williams, batting on 49, chose to walk off after realizing he had edged the ball to the keeper. The gesture drew applause from Rashid and the Afghan players, underscoring the spirit of cricket. Williams’ innings ended with 49 runs off 52 balls, including eight fours.

Here is the video: 

Superb sportsmanship by Sean Williams! 🫡

Even though the umpire did not give him out, the Zimbabwe batter walked off, knowing he had nicked the ball! 👏🏻#ZIMvAFGonFanCode pic.twitter.com/F3jT3fLDjb

— FanCode (@FanCode) January 3, 2025

Rashid continued to demonstrate why he is Afghanistan’s premier bowler across all formats. The 26-year-old leg-spinner delivered a masterful spell in Zimbabwe’s first innings, claiming four wickets for 94 runs in 27.3 overs at an economy rate of 3.40?. His control, variations, and skill with the googly were on full display, solidifying his repu?tation as the leading wicket-taker for Afghanistan.

Also READ: IPL 2025: 3 reaso??ns why Rashid Khan can replace Shubman Gill as Gujarat Titans�?cap??tain

Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan: Series hangs in the balance

At the close of Day 2, Afghanistan had reached 46 for the loss of three wickets, trailing Zimbabwe’s first-innings total by 40 runs. Rahmat Shah and Zia-ur-Rehman remained on the crease, looking to steady the ship for Afghanistan in the crucial third day. With both batters showcasing solid technique, Afghanist?an will aim to establish a significant lead to put Zimbabwe under pressure in the second innings.

Following the drawn first Test, this second and final match of the series presents a golden opportunity for both teams to secure a series victory. The contest remains evenly poised, with Zimbabwe and Afghani??stan each vying to outplay the other over the remaining days.

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG: After Rahmat Shah, captain Hashmatullah Shahidi smashes double century for Afghanis?tan in the first Test at Bulawayo

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The second Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Bulawayo began with Zimbabwe asserting dominance on a day filled with bowling brilliance. After electing to field first, Zimbabwe’s bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly, bundling Afghanistan out for a below-par 157 on Day 1. The visiting batters struggled to find rhythm, with none managing a score beyond 25. Tight lines and relentless pressure ensured wickets fell at regular intervals, leaving Afghanistan reeling. Zimbabwe’s openers then safely navigated the tricky final three overs, reaching 6/0 at stumps and trailing by 151 runs.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers led by Sikandar Raza dominate Afghanistan

The Zimbabwean bowling attack delivered a masterclass in discipline and execution. Richard Ngarava was unplayable with figures of 1/18 in 12 overs, suffocating the Afghan batters with his precision. Blessing Muzarabani provided crucial breakthroughs, claiming 2/56, including the key scalp of Shahidullah. Sikandar Raza’s off-spin (3/30) was the standout, dismantling Afghanistan’s middle order with turn and subtle variations. Newman Nyamhuri (3/42) shone in the later stage?s, expertly cleaning up the tail. The collective effort restricted Afghanistan to a mere 157, as Zimbabwe’s bowlers worked in tandem to exploit every lapse in concentration from the opposition.

Afghanistan’s batting woes continue

Afghanistan’s innings was marred by an inability to build meaningful partnerships. Openers Abdul Malik (17) and Riaz Hassan (12) made starts but couldn’t convert them, while Rahmat Shah (19) and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (13) fell to soft dismissals. Afsar Zazai and Shahidullah tried to stabilize the innings with brief contributions, but none could withstand Zimbabwe’s relentless attack. Rashid Khan’s counteratta??cking 25 off 20 balls provided a late spark?, but it wasn’t enough to rescue the innings. Frequent collapses and lack of application underlined Afghanistan’s struggles as they were bowled out in just 44.3 overs, squandering any chance of a competitive total.

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG, 2nd Test: Bulawayo Weather F??orecast For All 5 D?ays | Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 2024-25

Zimbabwe’s steady start in reply

Zimbabwe’s openers, Joylord Gumbie (4 not out) and Ben Curran (1 not out), showed composure under the fading light, ensuring no early setbacks in their reply. Facing three probing overs from Afghanistan’s bowlers, they carefully negotiated deliveries from Rashid, Fareed Ahmad and Yamin Ahmadzai. Though runs came slowly, the duo’s focus was on preserving wickets. Zimbabwe’s batting depth, with experienced campaigners like Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza waiting in the wings, sets them up for a dominant position on Day 2. The hosts will look to capitalize on this solid start and pile on the runs to take full contr??ol of the match.

Brilliant bowling display by Zimbabwe as they bowl out Afghanistan for 157 on Day 1 of the inaugural New Year’s Test.#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝//t.co/HdHfDCXyud pic.twitter.com/JqxnzfFVKr

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 2, 2025

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG 2025, 2nd Test: Queens Sports Club?? Pitch Report, Bulawayo Test stats and Records

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The Boxing Day Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Bulawayo concluded in a high-scoring draw, with both teams showcasing their batting prowess. Zimbabwe posted a formidable total of 586 in the first innings, led by stellar centuries from Sean Williams, Craig Ervine and Brian Bennett. Afghanistan responded with a monumental 699, courtesy of a double century from Hashmatullah Shahidi and a brilliant knock by Rahmat Shah. ?With little time left on the final day, Zimbabwe reached 142/4 in t??heir second innings, ensuring the game ended in a stalemate.

Zimbabwe sets the tone with a mammoth first innings total

Zimbabwe’s first innings was a masterclass in composure and strategic play. Williams led the charge with a commanding 154 off 174 balls, supported by Ervine’s patient 104. The duo’s 200-run partnership laid the foundation for Zimbabwe’s imposing total of 586. Bennett added a quickfire 110 not out, accelerating the scoring in the latter stages. Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Allah Ghazanfar with three wickets, struggled to contain Zimbabwe’s batters. Naveed Zadran and Zahir Khan chipped in with two wickets each but couldn’t prevent the hosts from amassing a substantial total. By the close of play on Day 1, Zimbabwe had already signaled their intent. Second day saw Afghanistan begin their response cautiously, reaching 95/2 by stumps, with Rahmat and Shahidi starting to build a formidable partnership.

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Afghanistan’s top order dominates: Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi

Afghanistan’s reply was anchored by a historic partnership between Rahmat and Shahidi. Rahmat’s marathon knock of 234 and Shahidi’s masterful 246 were the cornerstones of Afghanistan’s total of 699. Their partnership of 364 for the third wicket left Zimbabwe’s bowlers frustrated. Afsar Zazai contributed a crucial 113, adding depth to the innings. Despite valiant effor?ts, Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Bennett’s five-wicket haul, couldn’t prevent Afghanistan from taking the lead. By the fourth day, Afghanistan had firmly established their dominance, but with no time left to enforce a result, the match seemed destined for a draw.

Highest individual ??????????????????????????score for Afgh??anistan in Test cricket 🏏

246: Hashmatullah Shahidi vs Zimbabwe, 2024

234: Rahmat Shah vs Zimbabwe, 2024#cricket #ZIMvAFG #HashmatullahShahidi #RahmatShah pic.twitter.com/CkIZoe19z0

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 30, 2024

Zimbabwe holds firm to force a draw

Zimbabwe’s second innings started with a mix of caution and aggression as they aimed to erase Afghanistan’s slender lead. Joylord Gumbie (24) and Ben Curran (41) provided a steady start, but quick wickets from Zahir Khan and Ghazanfar threatened to derail their innings. However, Williams (35 not out) and Ervine (22 not out) stabilized the chase, steering Zimbabwe to 142/4 before stumps. The disciplined efforts of Afghanistan’s bowlers weren’t enough to secure a breakthroug??h as Zimbabwe successfully batted out the final session. The match ended in a hard-fought draw, with both teams taking valuable positives from a game that highlighted their batting depth and resilience.

MATCH DRAWN! 🚨

The first test match between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan has been drawn. 👍#AfghanAtalan | #ZIMvAFG | #GloriousNationVictoriousTeam pic.twitter.com/JLd5QKuzWe

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) December 30, 2024

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Afghanistan started the third day at 95/2, trailing Zimbabwe by a massive 491 runs. The pressure was on their batters to deliver a resilient performance against a disciplined Zimbabwean bowling attack. Rising to the occasion, Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi constructed a marathon partnership that not only stabilized Afghanistan’s innings but also displayed their grit and skill at the Test level. By stumps, Afghanistan have reached an imposing 425/2, trailing by just 161 runs with Rahmat and Shahidi firmly in control.

Rahmat Shah’s record-breaking double century

Rahmat was the standout performer, producing an unbeaten 231, one of the most significant Test innings in Afghanistan’s cricket history. Facing 416 deliveries, his innings was a masterclass in patience and shot selection. Rahmat’s ability to rotate strike and dispatch loose deliveries kept the Zimbabwean bowlers under constant pressure. His crisp stroke play, including 23 boundaries and three sixes, highlighted his dominance at the crease. Rahmat also showcased remarkable concentration, with his milestone moments – reaching 100 off 198 balls and later 200 off 371 balls – punctuating an innings of immense maturity. Rahmat further joined the elite club by becoming only the second Afghan batter after Shahidi to score a double century in Tests.

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG: ?Here�??�s why Rashid Khan not playing the Boxing Day Test

Hashmatullah Shahidi’s gritty support anchors Afghanistan

Shahidi complemented Rahmat brilliantly with a steady 141 not out off 276 balls. While Rahmat played the aggressor’s role, Shahidi anchored the partnership, displaying his sound technique and temperament. His knock included 16 boundaries, with his fifty coming off 108 balls and his century off 201 deliveries. Shahidi’s ability to occupy the crease for extended periods allowed Afghanistan to rebuild after the early losses of Sediqullah Atal and Abdul Malik. Together, Rahmat and Shahidi put on an unbroken 361-run partnership for the third wicket, a r??ecord-breaking stand for Afghanistan?? in Test cricket.

Zimbabwe’s bowling struggles on a flat track

Zimbabwe’s bowlers toiled hard on a flat Bulawayo surface that offered little assistance. Blessing Muzarabani and Trevor Gwandu managed to claim early wickets, but the attack lacked the penetration to trouble Rahmat and Shahidi. Sean Williams and Brandon Mavuta bowled lengthy spells without success, as Afghanistan capitalized on the conditions. The hosts’ inability to generate reverse swing or extract turn further eased the task for the Afghan batters, who batted with remarkable discipline and intent.

With two days remaining and Afghanistan trailing by just 161 runs, the match is intriguingly poised. Zimbabwe will look to regroup and strategize to break the Rahmat-Shahidi partnership early on Day 4 to regain control of the game. On the other hand, Afghanistan will aim to surpass Zimbabwe’s total and set up a competitive contest.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Rahmat Shah once again showing the class act that he is. Sediq and he are going to be important players for Afg at the Champs trophy. #ZimvsAfg

— Srinath (@srinathb) December 28, 2024

Congratulations to both Rahmat Shah and Hashmat shahidi for record making partnerships to bring Afghanistan back in the game. Afghanistan should continue till tea tomorrow to put some pressure on zim .@RahmatShah_08 @Hashmat_50 pic.twitter.com/oySoUPBvx2

— Taj Malik Alam (@TajMalokAlam) December 28, 2024

𝐃𝐎𝐔𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐇𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐑𝐄𝐃! 💯💯@RahmatShah_08 puts on a magnificent batting performance as he brings up an incredible d??ouble hundred in the ongoing test match against Zimbabwe. 🙌🤩

A batting display to remember for a long, long time, Shah G! 👏#AfghanAtalan | #ZIMvAFG |�?pic.twitter.com/WdwOZb6OCl

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) December 28, 2024

Calm, composed, and calculated! Incredible, just incredible from the ever-reliable @RahmatShah_08.

MA SHA ALLAH, a fantastic batting performance, Shah G! Keep them coming. 🤩👏🙌 pic.twitter.com/8nzqsQnOGe

— Hakim Ahmadzai (@HAhmadzai10) December 28, 2024

Meanwhile, Rahmat Shah & Shahidi have batted the whole day in Bulawayo. Insane. #ZimvAfg

— Saresh Saha (@CricSar) December 28, 2024

Excellent knock by Shah G!! Kept his nerves calm. I hope we can play test series against England & New Zealand next. @RahmatShah_08 pic.twitter.com/eMy9biM2ix

— ابراهیم. 🇦🇫 (@TheKabulWala) December 28, 2024

Wow, Rahmat Shah and Hashm?atullah Shahidi have stitched a 350 run stand.

Double ton for Rahmat Shah🔥

— Mayank (@ImMayankB) December 28, 2024

Captain ??Hashmatullah Shahidi brings up his 2nd Test century!

He's unbeaten on 131, sharing a 303-run partnership with Rahmat Shah.

His 2nd ton against Zimbabwe, showcasing his mastery! #AFGvZIM #HashmatullahShahidi pic.twitter.com/bCAbMKltNe

— Muhammad Areeb Uddin Sheikh. #AreebCricketWorld (@areeb_7official) December 28, 2024

The game is finely in the balance as Afghanistan managed to bat through the day, ending Day 3 on 425/2 trailing Zimbabwe by 161 runs.#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝 //t.co/HCDfKNlkKl pic.twitter.com/tilcuRNEDG

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) December 28, 2024

2️⃣nd Test hundred by Rahmat Shah 👏🏏#CricketTwitter #ZIMvAFG #rahmatshah #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/1S8M7G0cjF

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 28, 2024

Also ?WATCH: Sam Konstas hilariously taunts Indian fans by mimi?cking Virat Kohli’s shoulder barge during MCG Test

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The first Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, witnessed a remarkable display of batting supremacy by the hosts. Zimbabwe posted an imposing total of 586 in their first innings, marking their highest-ever total in Test cricket. The innings featured scintillating centuries from Sean Williams, Craig Ervine and Brian Bennett, each showcasing skill and temperament. By stumps on Day 2, Afghanistan were precariously placed at 95/2, trailing by 491 runs with Rahmat Shah unbeaten on 49.

Zimbabwe’s highest-ever total: A masterclass in batting

Zimbabwe’s innings were built on strong partnerships and brilliant individual performances. Williams led the charge with a majestic 154, crafted off 174 deliveries. His innings, laced with ten boundaries and three sixes, was a masterclass in shot selection and resilience. Williams and Ervine added 150 runs for the fifth wicket, a stand that swung the momentum heavily in Zimbabwe’s favor. Ervine’s gritty 104, his tenth Test century, came off 176 balls and was a testament to his experience and composure.

Bennett further cemented Zimbabwe’s dominance with an aggressive 110 not out, showcasing flair and confidence. His knock, studded with five fours and four sixes, provided the perfect flourish to Zimbabwe’s innings. Partnerships flourished throughout, with contributions from Ben Curran (68) and Takudzwanashe Kaitano (46) ensuring no respite for the Afghan bow??lers. The monumental tot??al of 586 is now a landmark achievement in Zimbabwe’s Test history.

Allah Ghazanfar’s promising debut despite Afghanistan’s bowling struggles

Afghanistan’s bowlers had a challenging outing, as Zimbabwe dictated terms with ease. Among the bowlers, debutant Allah Ghazanfar stood out, claiming 3/127 in 30.2 overs. Despite the steep learning curve of Test cricket, Ghazanfar showed promise with his variations and control. Zia-ur-Rehman (2/101) and Naveed Zadran (2/109) chipped in with wickets but lacked the consistency to trouble Zimbabwe’s batters. Azmatullah Omarzai and Zahir Khan managed one wicket each but we??re largely ineffective against the determined Zi??mbabwean lineup.

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG: Here’s why Rashi??d Khan not playing the?? Boxing Day Test

Afghanistan’s response: A slow and cautious start

Faced with an enormous deficit, Afghanistan’s response began on a shaky note, losing opener Sediqullah Atal early for just 3 runs. Abdul Malik contributed a patient 23 before falling to Blessing Muzarabani’s disciplined bowling. Rahmat, however, stood firm, compiling a well-crafted 49 off 95 balls. His innings, featuring five boundaries and a six, was the only bright spot for Afghanistan on t??he second day.

Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi supported him with an unbeaten 16, and the pair will need to anchor the innings f??urther to avoid the follow-on. As the second day ended, the hosts held a commanding position, with Afghanistan still trailing by 491 runs. Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Blessing Muzarabani and Trevor Gwandu, already made early inroads into the Afghan lineup, signaling a long and challenging road ahead for the visitors.

Zimbabwe claimed two important wickets before the close of p??lay on Day 2 of the first Test against Afghanistan after posting their highest-ever Test score of 586. Afghanistan trail by 491 runs at stumps.

The third day’s play is scheduled to start at 9:40 a.m#ZIMvAFG�?pic.twitter.com/4hmRjvgRKC

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) December 27, 2024

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On the first day of the historic Boxing Day Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe showcased a commanding performance, finishing the day with a score of 363 for 4. The match, which was Zimbabwe’s first home Boxing Day Test in 28 years, saw several debutants from both sides, adding to the excitement of the encounter.

Early setback and Ben Curran’s impactful debut

Zimbabwe chose to bat first after winning the toss. The day began with some early jitters as both opener Joylord Gumbie was dismissed early. However, Ben Curran, making his Test debut, was really impressive. He contributed with a brisk 68 of?f 74 balls, setting a positiv?e tone for the innings.

Sean Williams shines with a spectacular century

Although, it was Sean Williams who stole the show, hitting a sensational century and remaining unbeaten on 145. His innings was marked by skillful f?ootwork and an array of shots, including drives, cuts, and pulls, helping him reach his fifth Test century in Bulawayo with a control percentage of 90 on a surface that offered turn.

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG: Here’s ?why Rashid Khan not playing the Boxing Day Test

Craig Ervine’s steady support in crucial partnership

Supporting Williams, Craig Ervine played an unbeaten knock of 56, contributing to an unbroken partnership of 143 for the sixth wicket. Earlier, Takudzwanashe Kaitano and Dion Myers added useful runs with scores of 27 and 27 respectively, though they couldn’t convert their starts into substantial innings.

Afghanistan’s bowling struggles in Rashid Khan’s absence

For Afghanistan, the absence of star player Rashid Khan, who pulled out due to personal reasons, was felt as their bowling attack struggled to make inroads. Allah Ghazanfar, making his Test debut, picked up two wickets but couldn’t prevent Zimbabwe from posting a strong total. The Afghan bowlers, particularly the spinners, found it challenging to contain the Zimbabwean batters on a pitch that seemed to favor the home side.

The day was also marked by weather concerns, with forecasts predicting rain throughout the match, potentially affecting the game’s progress. However, on Day 1, play was uninterrupted, allowing Zimbabwe to establish a dominant position.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Here’s why Team India players are wearing black arm bands on Day 2 of th??e 4th Test against Australia

Here is how Twitter reacted

A fifth Test ton for Sean Williams 🙌#ZIMvAFG pic.twitter.com/AB3U4XWzr9

— ICC (@ICC) December 26, 2024

SEAN WILLIAMS! Our Zimbabwean legend crosses the line for a magnificent cent??ury.

??His ??fifth in test cricket and a phenomenal one for Zimbabwe.

Very proud! Onwards we go! pic.twitter.com/2amMf7nLbc

— Adam Theo🇿🇼🏏 (@AdamTheofilatos) December 26, 2024

I've said it in past, I'll say it again.

Sean Williams is the greatest ever to hold a cricket bat for Zimbabwe. pic.twitter.com/7QpmZ9Dnwv

— Udit (@Merovaeous) December 26, 2024

Take a b??ow Sean Williams! You’ve lifted the mood of?? entire Zimbabwe 👏🏻👏🏻

Smashing a test century against the li??kes of Ghazanfar, Zahir and Omarzai isn’t easy!

It's just sad to see him playing just 16 Tests in all these years.

pic.twitter.com/wpGXZee5ZD

— Krishna Raj (@rajkrishna52) December 26, 2024

Fifth Test century for Sean Williams 🙌#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝 //t.co/HCDfKNlkKl pic.twitter.com/sttqmkEA5T

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) December 26, 2024

Mag?nificent knock from Sean Williams as he celebrates his test century in Bulawayo

Via @AdamTheofilatos pic.twitter.com/5cRhb3FU4G

— Zim-Celebs (@zimcelebs1) December 26, 2024

Sean Williams with a BIG 100 for @ZimCricketv and his family. What a knock! This is what it's about ❤️🇿🇼🏏 #ZIMvAFG pic.twitter.com/ooC5vGWB8n

— Mamzi (@GodwillMamhiyo) December 26, 2024

Sean Williams is back at his best. pic.twitter.com/jkR0ZGwmUj

— Sulay 🏏☘️ (@Sulay177) December 26, 2024

Led by Sean Williams's unbeaten 145, Zimbabwe posted 363 for 4 on the opening day against Afghanistan. #ZIMvAFG pic.twitter.com/uoDGZKC4DM

— Olivia Asha (@AshaOliviaUSA) December 26, 2024

What an Innings by Sean Williams #ZIMvAFG

— Kawal (@bandaofrabb) December 26, 2024

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Zimbabwe’s ODI cricket history witnessed a grim milestone on Thursday during the second ODI against Afghanistan in a three-match series at the Harare Sports Club. Afghanistan, with a spectacular all-round performance, outclassed Zimbabwe by a massive margin of 232 runs, consigning the hosts to one of their lowest totals in ODI history. This defeat added another chapter to Zimbabwe’s struggle in the format, as they joined their infamous list of lowest-ever totals.

Top 5 lowest totals for Zimbabwe in One Day Internationals

5. 54 vs Afghanistan (2017) �?A decider to forget

In February 2017, during the 5th ODI of Afghanistan’s tour of Zimbabwe, the hosts faced a devastating collapse. Chasing 254 runs (adjusted to 161 via the DLS method) at Harare, Zimbabwe were bundled out for just 54 runs. The Afghanistan bowlers capitalized on a deteriorating pitch, exposing Zimbabwe’s fragile batting lineup. Despite their bowlers putting up a spirited effort in the first innings, limiting Afghanistan to 253/9, the batters faltered. This dismal performance handed visitors a series-clinching 3-2 victory, leaving the host with one of their lowest totals in ODI cricket.

4. 54 vs Afghanistan (2024) �?History repeats itself

In a déjà vu moment during the 2nd ODI of the Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe in 2024-25, Zimbabwe once again collapsed for 54 runs at Harare. Afghanistan had set a challenging target of 287 after posting 286/6, with their batters in fine form. Zimbabwe’s chase never got off the ground as none of their batters managed to score even 20 runs. This crushing 232-run defeat not only marked Zimbabwe’s fourth-lowest total in ODIs but also became their third-biggest margin of loss in the format. The visitors�?disciplined bowling left the hosts reeling and the series was effectively decided.

Also READ: Afghanistan records a ?thumping win over Zimbabwe in 2nd ODI

3. 44 vs Bangladesh (2009) �?A collapse in Chattogram

In November 2009, during the 4th ODI of Zimbabwe’s tour of Bangladesh in Chattogram, Zimbabwe registered their third-lowest ODI total of 44 runs. Bangladesh’s bowlers were in sublime form, dismantling Zimbabwe’s lineup in just 24.5 overs. Chasing target of 49, the host cruised to a six-wicket victory with 229 balls to spare. This embarrassing defeat not only highlighted Zimbabwe’s? batting woes but also sealed the series 4-1 in favor of Bangladesh. At the time, Zimbabwe’s 44 was the seventh-lowest ODI total ever recorded.

2. 38 vs Sri Lanka (2001) �?Chaminda Vaas runs riot

In December 2001, Zimbabwe faced Sri Lanka in the LG Abans Triangular Series opener at Colombo, and the result was a historic low. Zimbabwe managed just 38 runs, the fourth-lowest ODI total in history, as Chaminda Vaas delivered a bowling masterclass. Vaas took 8 wickets for just 19 runs, the best bowling figures in ODI history to date. Sri Lanka chased down the paltry target with ease, reaching 40/1 in just 4.2 overs with 274 balls remaining. This match? epitomized Zimbabwe’s struggles against world-class bowling attacks during that era.

1. 35 vs Sri Lanka (2004) �?The lowest ODI total ever

Zimbabwe’s lowest point in ODI cricket came i?n April 2004 during their tour of Sri Lanka. In the 3rd ODI at Harare, Zimbabwe collapsed for an all-time record-low score of 35 runs, a dubious distinction that still stands as the lowest total in ODI history. None of the Zimbabwean batters reached double figures as Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by ferocious spells of fast and swing bowling, decimated the lineup. The visitors comfortably chased the target, finishing at 40/1 in just 9.2 overs with 244 balls to spare. This match remains a stark reminder of Zimbabwe’s batting frailti??es against top-tier bowling units.

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