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 stages, 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 c??oncentration 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 counter??attacking 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 Forecast For All 5 Days | 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 t?hem 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 control 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, 2n??d Test: ??Queens Sports Club Pitch Report, Bulawayo Test stats and Records

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The second and final Test of the Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan series is set to begin on Thursday, January 2, at the Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. Both teams will aim for a decisive victory after the first Test ??ended in a high-scoring draw.

First Test Recap: A Batting Fest

The opening Test saw a run-fest, with batters from both sides enjoying their time at the crease. Zimbabwe posted a massive 586 runs in their first innings, powered by Sean Williams’ 154, Craig Ervine’s 104 and Brian Bennett’s unbeaten 110. Debutant Ben Curran also contributed with a half-century.

Afghanistan responded with an equally dominant performance, amassing 699 runs. The visitors were led?? by brilliant double-centuries from Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi, with Afsar Zazai adding a century to the tally. When the game ended ??in a draw, Zimbabwe were at 142/4 in their second innings.

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG 2025, 2nd Test – Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Cricket Tips & Pitch Report

Bulawayo Weather Forecast for 2nd ZIM vs AFG Test

The second Test faces the looming threat? of rain, with persistent s?howers forecasted throughout the match:

Thursday (Day 1): Moderate rain wit??h a 70% chance of precipitation could lead?? to delays.

Friday (Day 2): Heavy rain?? and a 94?% precipitation forecast may result in little to no play.

Saturday (Day 3): Another day o??f heavy rain, with an 89% chance of precipitation, threatens further interruptions.

Sunday (Day 4): Moderate rain with an 80% chance of precipitation could ?s?till disrupt proceedings.

Monday (Day 5): Ra??in persists, but a relatively lower 65% precipitation forecast offers a glimmer o??f hope for some play.

The stakes for the match

With the series on the line, both teams will need to adapt quickly to the weather conditions and maximize any opportunities to secure a result. Zimbabwe will rely on their strong batting lineup, while Afghanistan’s powerful response in the first Test showcases their potential to clinch victory.

Fans and players alike will be h??oping for clear spells to d??ecide the fate of the series in Bulawayo.

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

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As the calendar year of 2024 comes to an end, the Indian cricket team, led by the experienced Rohit Sharma, looks back on a season of unforgettable moments and formidable challenges. The year was a whirlwind of emotions for players and fans alike, filled with milestones that showcased the team’s potential on the global stage. From spectacular victories that etched their names in history books to heart-stopping encounters that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Team India’s journey in 2024 was nothing short of captivating. It was a year that saw? emerging stars sh??ine brightly, senior players lead with grit, and the team push its boundaries in pursuit of excellence.

However, 2024 was not without its trials. The? team faced unprecedented challenges, including injuries to key players, close defeats in crucial matches, and moments where their performance came under scrutiny. These setbacks tested the resilience and character of the squad, compelling t??hem to dig deep and find ways to bounce back stronger.

Through it all, the highs and lows painted a vivid picture of a team striving to stay at the pinnacle of international cricket. As fans bid farewell to an eventful year, they carry forward cherished memories while eagerly anticipating what? the next chapter holds for Team India.

A historic start to 2024

Memorable triumphs over South Africa and England

India kicked off the year with a significant achievement in Test cricket by securing a historic win against South Africa at Cape Town, drawing the 2-match series 1-1. This victory was not only a morale booster but also showcased the team’s ability to triumph in challenging conditions. Later, they dominated England at home, clinching a 4-1 Test series win, which was highlighted by a record-breaking 434-run victory in Rajkot, ?the biggest Test win for India by runs.

The T20 World Cup glory

The highlight of the year was undoubtedly India’s triumph in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the West Indies and the United States. Under Rohit’s captaincy and with stellar performances from Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and an emerging Yashasvi Jaiswal, India won the tournament without losing a sing??le match, ending an 11-year drought for an ICC trophy. The celebrations in Mumbai with an open bus parade were a testament to the joy and pride this victory brought to the nation.

Bilateral series dominance

In the T20 format, India were nearly unbeatable, winning five bilateral series, including sweeps against Afghanistan and Bangladesh at home and away battle in Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, and South Africa. This included setting multiple records, with Sanju Samson becoming the first player to score three centuries in T20Is in a calendar year, and India achieving the highest win percentage in T20I histor?y for a calendar year.

Also READ:? Top 5 players with the most runs scored in 2024 ft. Ya??shasvi Jaiswal

Challenges and Setbacks

Historic loss against Sri Lanka

However, 2024 wasn’t without its lows. The ODI format proved particularly challen?ging. India lo?st a bilateral ODI series against Sri Lanka after 27 years and went the entire year without a single ODI win, something not seen in 45 years.

Embarrassing show against New Zealand

In Tes??ts, the hom?e series against New Zealand was a shock, resulting in a 0-3 whitewash, marking the first time in 36 years India lost a Test series at home to New Zealand. Additionally, the team suffered their lowest Test total at home, further underlining the unexpected lows in what was otherwise a successful year.

Struggle in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Further, India also struggled against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Though they began well with a win in Perth in the opening Test but faced challengers thereafter??. The visitors lost the Pink-Ball Test in Adelaide followed by a drawn game in Gabba before ending the 2024 with a loss in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Notably, the series will conclude with the New Year Test at Sydney in January 2025.

Emerging stars and transition

The year also marked significant transitions within the team. With Rohit and Virat Kohli retiring from T20 cricket after the World Cup win, and Gautam Gambhir taking over as head coach, India are clearly setting its sights on a new era. The emergence of young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, who became the leading run-scorer for India in 2024, and Nitish Reddy, who impressed wit??h his all-round heroics in BGT, signal a bright future fo??r Indian cricket

Also?? READ: To??p 5 players with most wickets in 2024 ft. Jasprit Bumrah

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The year 2024 will be etched in history as a golden chapter for Test cricket. Fans witnessed thrilling contests, incredible comebacks, and record-breaking performances. From dramatic last-over finishes to monumental batting displays, the longest format showcased its enduring charm. Teams across the globe demonstrated resilience, skill, and passion, making Test cricket the?? ultimate battleground for excellence. With numerous milestones achieved, 2024 proved why Test cricket remains the purest form of the game.

Batters take charge: Dominating bowlers and mammoth innings

In 2024, several batters rose to the occasion, turning pressure into opportunity with record-breaking performances. The likes of Kane Williamson and Marnus Labuschagne stunned opponents with double and triple centuries, leaving bowlers hapless. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s authoritative stroke play and Steve Smith’s marathon knocks reminded the cricketing world of their class. Meanwhile, rising stars like Saim Ayub and Harry Brook announced their arrival with fearless batting. From spinning tracks in India to green tops in England, batters showcased adaptability and enduranc??e. Their tow?ering individual scores stood out as a hallmark of their mastery over the game.

Test cricket 2024: Top 5 best individual performances with the bat

1. Harry Brook’s Remarkable 317

Brook delivered a sensational performance in the first Test against Pakistan in Multan, scoring an extraordinary 317 runs off just 322 balls. His innings featured 29 boundaries and 3 sixes, maintaining a strike rate of 98.44, which is rare in Tests. Brook’s counter-attacking approach dismantled Pakistan’s bowling lineup, turning the game decisively in England’s favour. His aggressive style and sharp shot selection demonstrated his ability to dominate even in challenging conditions. This innings also solidified his reputation as one of the most impactful modern Test batters. The knock was a blend of aggression and consistency, earning him the Player of the Match award.

2. Joe Root’s Classical 262

Joe Root displayed his trademark elegance with a patient 262 against Pakistan in Multan. Occupying the crease for over 10 hours, Root faced 375 balls, striking 17 fours in a composed innings. His ability to anchor England’s innings provided the perfect foil to Brook’s attacking style, building a partnership that drained the Pakistan bowlers. Root’s knock emphasized technique and temperament, showcasing why he remains a vital cog in England’s Test setup. His calculated approach allowed England to build a mammoth total, setting up a commanding lead. Root’s innings reinforced his standing as one of England’s greatest Test players.

3. Hashmatullah Shahidi’s heroic 246

Afghanistan‘s Hashmatullah Shahidi scored a remarkable 246 runs in the Boxing Day Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. Battling for over 11 hours, Shahidi faced 474 deliveries and struck 21 boundaries. His innings was a testament to resilience and patience, as he held the Afghan innings together under pressure. Shahidi’s temperament and shot selection were key to Afghanistan surpassing Zimbabwe’s imposing first-innings total. This career-best performance also marked his stature as a reliable middle-order batter for Afghanistan. His double-century came in a historic partnership with Rahmat Shah, ensuring Afghanistan a??voided defeat in a tough match?.

Also READ: Top 5 players with the most interna?tional catches in 2024 ft. Rohit Sharma

4. Rachin Ravindra’s masterful 240

Rachin Ravindra produced a masterful 240 in the first Test against South Africa at Mount Maunganui. Batting for over 9 hours, Ravindra’s innings was a mix of aggression and stability, featuring 26 fours and 3 sixes. He dominated the South African attack with his elegant stroke play and calculated risk-taking. Ravindra’s innings n??ot only helped New Zealand post a massive first-innings score but also put the visitors under immense pressure. His ability to counter South Africa’s pacers highlighted his maturity as a batter. Additionally, he contributed with the ball, claiming 2 wickets to cap a remarkable all-round performance.

5. Rahmat Shah’s gritty 234

Rahmat showcased immense determination with a gritty 234 against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. Facing 424 balls, he struck 23 boundaries and 3 sixes, anchoring Afghanistan’s innings alongside Shahidi. Rahmat’s ability to absorb pressure and convert starts into a big score stood out in a match where patience was key. His partnership with Shahidi broke several records, ensuring Afghanistan not only overcame Zimbabwe’s first-innings total but also took the lead. Rahmat’s knock ?was characterized by sol??id technique and relentless focus. This monumental effort further solidified his role as a cornerstone of Afghanistan’s batting lineup.

Match results: Decisive wins and hard-fought draws

• England vs Pakistan, Multan: England triumphed by an innings and 47 runs, with Brook’s 317 and Root’s 262 leading the charge. Their combined efforts took England to 823/7 declared, leaving Pakistan with an insurmountable deficit. Despite valiant attempts, Pakistan’s second innings ended at 220, falling short of avoiding an innings defeat.
• Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe, Bulawayo: The match ended in a thrilling draw, with Zimbabwe scoring 586 in the first innings, followed by Afghanistan’s 699. Afghanistan’s Shahidi (246) and Rahmat (234) dominated the game with their record-breaking partnership. Zimbabwe batted out the final day at 142/4, ensuring the game concluded evenly.
• New Zealand vs South Africa, Mount Maunganui: New Zealand secured a commanding 281-run victory. Ravindra’s 240 helped the hosts post 511 in the first innings, putting South Africa under immense pressure. South Africa crumbled in their chase, unable to cope with New Zealand’s dominant bowling.

Also READ: Top 5 most wickets by an Indian bowler in a cal?endar year ft. Jasprit Bumrah

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Pakistan batter Fakhar Zaman has revealed his picks for the semi-finalists of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. After months of speculation, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has resolved hosting uncertainties by confirming the tournament will be held across Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The eight-team event, played in a 50-over format, will feature 15 matches. Notably England are the only nation to?? have announced their sq?uad so far.

Champions Trophy 2025: Host and venue details

India’s matches of the Champions Trophy 2025 have been shifted to Dubai due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)’s decision not to send its team to Pakistan, citing?? security c??oncerns.

The tournament will feature eight teams divided into two groups of four. Group A consists of Pakistan, India, New Zealand and Bangladesh, while Group B includes Australia, England, South Africa and Afghanistan. Karach??i, Lahore, and Rawalpindi will host the group-stage matches in Pakistan, while Dubai will serve as the venue for the knockout stages, including both semi-finals and the final. If India qualifies for the final, the match will be played in Dubai, with reserve days in place for both semi-finals and the final to ensure no interruptions due to weather.

Also READ: Dinesh Karthi?k names Rohit Sharma’s opening partn??er for the Champions Trophy 2025

Fakhar Zaman’s semifinalists

Speaking on Basit Ali’s YouTube channel, Fakhar expressed confidence in teams fr??om subcontinent securing a spot in the final four. Despite formidable sides like New Zealand, England, and Australia, Fakhar included South Africa in his list of semi-finalists.

“Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and South Africa are the teams I believe will reach the semi-finals,” Fakhar stated.

Zaman’s memorable performance in the Champions Trophy 2017 final, where he scored a match-winning century against the arch-rivals, India, remains a defining moment of his career. His knock secured Pakistan’s first-ev??er Champions Trophy victory, and Fakhar was subsequently named Playe??r of the Match.

Also READ: Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi predicts his four semifinalists of Champions Tr??oph??y 2025

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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 their second innings, ensuring the game ended in a s??talemate.

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.

Also READ: Can India reach the WTC 2023-25 final? Here’s how standing?s look after Australia’s Melbour??ne Test win

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 efforts, Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Bennett’s five-wicket haul, couldn’t prevent Afghanistan from taking the lead. By the fourth d?ay, 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 Afghanistan? 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 breakthrough 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

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Ravi Shastri, Michae?l Vaughan reveal their top 3 greatest Indian batt?ers

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In a historic performance during the first Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo, Afghanistan’s captain Hashmatullah Shahidi achieved a remarkable milestone by scoring his second double century, contributing significantly to his team’s fightback. This achievement comes on the heels of teammate Rahmat Shah, who earlier struck his maiden Test double hundred, le?ading to an unprecedented partnership be?tween the two.

A record-breaking partnership between Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi

Rahmat and Shahidi formed a record 364-run stand, which is now the highest partnership for any wicket in Afghanistan’s Test history. Their efforts helped Afghanistan recover from a challenging position after Zimbabwe posted a formidable total of 586 runs in their first innings.

By the end of lunch on Day 5, Afghanistan were 656 for 4, with Shahidi remaining unbeaten on 236  and Shahidullah Kamal on 10.

Shahidi’s knock not only set a new Afghan record for individual scores in Test cricket but also surpassed Rahmat’s previous record of 234, achieved against Zimbabwe on the fourth day of the ongoing Test. He has so far smashed 20 fours during his stay in the middle, showcasing his dominance at the crease.

With his double century, Shahidi also became the first Afghan player to score two double hundreds in Test cricket, further solidifying his status as one of the key figures in Afghanistan’s batting lineup.

Also READ: AUS vs IND – Snickometer operator explains the absence of a spike during Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dismissal

Match Context

The match has turned into a run-fest, with both teams showcasing their batting prowess. Zimbabwe, who won the toss and elected to bat first, built posted a massive total in their first innings; thanks to centuries from Sean Williams (154), Craig Ervine (104) and Brian Bennett (110 not out).

However, the Zimbabwean side struggled to conta??i??n the Afghan batters, who capitalized on wayward bowling and poor fielding from the hosts.

Day 5, Lunch

Afghanistan: 656/4, lead by 70 runs

Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi: 236*#cricket #ZIMvAFG #HashmatullahShahidi pic.twitter.com/wrlLyIdpHg

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

Also READ: Fans react as Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi’s marathon stand revives Afghanistan’s hopes against Zimbabwe on Day 3 of Bulawayo Test

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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 w?hy Rashid K?han 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 record-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 batt?ing performance as he brings up an incredible double 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, Rah?mat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi have stitched a 350 run stand.

Double ton for Rahmat Shah🔥

— Mayank (@ImMayankB) December 28, 2024

Capt?ain Hashmat??ullah 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 mimicking Virat K??ohli’s shoulder barge during MCG Test

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On Day 2 of the first Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Afghanistan’s left-arm off-spinner Zia-ur-Rehman provided a much-needed breakthrough for his team. He clean bowled Zimbabwe’s lower-order batter, Brandon Mavuta, who was dismissed for a duck. The wicket came in the 111th over of Zimbabwe’s innings, when Mavuta faced just two deliveries.

Brandon Mavuta’s dismissal: A classic off-spinners delight

In a beautifully executed delivery, Rehman bowled a left-arm off-spin that pitched on leg stump and spun sharply to strike the top of off stump. Mavuta, attempting to defend, played the wrong line, and the ball turned viciously to hit the stumps. The dismissal came at a critical moment, as Mavuta was sent packing for a duck. Rehman’s celebration was a testament to the quality of his bowling, and it was a crucial wicket for Afghanistan.

Here is the video:

pic.twitter.com/MPW7iLEJtp

— Acb Xtra (@123of143) December 27, 2024

Before taking Mavuta’s wicket, Rehman had already made an impact by dismissing Zimbabwe’s captain, Craig Ervine. Ervine, who had been in superb form, was the top scorer for Zimbabwe with a magnificent 104 runs. H??is dismissal at such a crucial point brought some relief to Afghanistan, easing the pressure on their bowlers. Rehman’s timely breakthroughs were pivotal in slowing down Zimbabwe’s dominating momentum.

Also READ: Zimbabwe’s batting fireworks lead to historic high against Afghanistan on Day 2? of the Boxing Day Test

Zimbabwe’s dominant batting performance

Despite Rehman’s efforts, Zimbabwe’s batting performance in their first innings was exceptional. After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, Zimbabwe posted a mammoth total of 586. The innings featured three centurions: Sean Williams, Brian Bennett, and the aforementioned Ervine. The Zimbabwean batsmen were in complete co??ntrol, with t??heir partnership building steadily, leaving Afghanistan struggling to break through.

Afghanistan’s response has been challenging, as they reached 95 for the loss of two wickets by the end of Day 2. They trail Zimbabwe by a massive 491 runs, facing ?an uphill battle to ma??tch Zimbabwe’s total.

Also WATCH: Temper raises as Virat Kohli nearly clashes with Austr?alian fans on Day 2 of AUS vs IND Test

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