Day 2 of the only Test between Zimbabwe and Ireland saw both teams trading crucial blows, keeping the match evenly poised. Ireland recovered from a disastrous 31/5 to post 260, thanks to Andy McBrine’s unbeaten 90 and Mark Adair’s attacking 78. Blessing Muzarabani starred for?? Zimbabwe with 7/58, restricting Ireland from posting a b?igger total.

In response, Zimbabwe gained a slender seven-run lead, led by Nick Welch’s composed 90 and Muzarabani’s late counterattacking 47. Barry McCarthy’s 4/75 kept Ireland in the contest, preventing Zimbabwe from running away with the game. Ireland’s second innings started positively, reaching 83/1 by stumps, with Andy Balbirnie unbeaten o??n 32. With a 76-run lead and?? nine wickets in hand, Ireland holds the edge, but Zimbabwe’s bowlers will aim to strike early on Day 3.

Ireland recovers from early collapse to post 260

Ireland found themselves in deep trouble early in their first innings, collapsing to 31/5 as Zimbabwe’s bowlers ran riot. Muzarabani led the attack with exceptional accuracy, removing key Irish batters to put the visitors on the back foot. However, a counterattacking partnership between McBrine and Adair rescued Ireland from a disastrous position. McBrine played a valiant unbeaten knock of 90, missing a well-deserved century but ensuring Ireland had a fighting total.

Adair contributed a crucial 78, taking on Zimbabwe’s b??owlers with aggressive stroke play. Their 127-run stand for the seventh wicket frustrated Zimbabwe, shifting the momentum in Ireland’s favor. Muzarabani remained the standout bowler, finishing with figures of 7/58, preventing Ireland from reaching an even bigger score. Despite losing their last three wickets cheaply, Ireland managed to post 260, a total that looked improbable after their early struggles.

Also READ: ZIM vs IRE 2025, Only Te?st: Broadcast, L??ive Streaming details �?When and where to watch in India, Pakistan & other countries

Nick Welch’s resilience gives Zimbabwe a narrow first-innings lead

Zimbabwe made a cautious start in response but struggled to build big partnerships against Ireland’s disciplined bowling attack. Nick Welch was the standout performer, anchoring the innings with a well-compiled 90, falling agonizingly short of a maiden Test century. He pla?yed with great composure, mixing solid defense with calculated aggression to keep Zimbabwe in the contest. Captain Craig Ervine chipped in with a steady 32 before falling to McCarthy, who emerged as Ireland’s most effective bowler. The lower order provided unexpected resistance, with Muzarabani smashing a quick 47 to help Zimbabwe cross Ireland’s total. Des??pite McCarthy’s 4/75, Zimbabwe managed to edge ahead, finishing with 267, taking a slender seven-run lead. Though not a dominant advantage, Zimbabwe’s efforts ensured they would not have to bat last with a deficit, keeping them in the contest.

Ireland builds a solid foundation in second innings

Determined to overturn the seven-run deficit, Ireland made a steady start in their second innings under fading light. Openers Curtis Campher and Peter Moor looked positive, adding 48 runs for the first wicket before Moor fell to Richard Ngarava for 30, leaving captain Balbirnie and Curtis Campher at the crease. Balbirnie, showing excellent composure, played risk-free cricket to ensure no further se??tbacks before stumps. Campher provided solid support, remainin??g unbeaten on 14, while Balbirnie looked in control at 32*. At the close of play, Ireland reached 83/1, leading by 76 runs with nine wickets in hand. With a strong platform set, Ireland will look to extend their lead on Day 3 and push Zimbabwe onto the back foot.

The Test Match between Ireland and Zimbabwe in Bulawayo nicely poised. #Cricket #ZIMvIRE #Ireland #Zimbabwe #Test pic.twitter.com/2ht2ETfykQ

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 7, 2025

Also READ: ZIM vs IRE 2025, Only Test: Queens Sports Club Test stats and Records, Bulawayo W??eather Forecast for all five-days

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On Day 1 of only Test between Zimbabwe and Ireland in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe were in the ascendancy thanks to an exceptional performance from their premier fast bowler, Blessing Muzarabani.  The 27-year-old pacer delivered a spellbinding eff??ort, finishing the day with remarkable figures of 7/58 and becoming the first pacer from the country to reach this milestone.

Muzarabani’s dominance with the ball shattered Ireland’s batting line-up, as he single-handedly removed six of the top seven Ireland batters. His display was nothing short of clinical, as he consistently found the right areas and exploited the conditions beautifully. This left Ireland struggling at 260 all out. With Richard Ngarava chipping in with two wickets and Trevor Gwandu contributing one, Zimbabwe’s bowlers proved to be too much for Ireland, keeping them to a modest total. This early breakthrough laid the foundation for Zimbabwe’s push for control in the match, leaving Ireland to contemplate what could have been a much larger score.

Ireland’s struggles with the bat: A fragile top order exposed against Blessing Muzarabani

Ireland’s batting unit was exposed early on by the relentless Zimbabwean bowlers, who demonstrated both skill and patience throughout the day. After opting to bat first, Ireland found themselves in serious trouble with the scoreboard reading a paltry 82/6. Peter Moor’s poor form continued as he fell early, caught by Curran off Muzarabani, while Andy Balbirnie, Curtis Campher, and Harry Tector were all dismissed in quick succes??sion. Muzarabani’s mastery with the ball proved too much for the Irish top order, as he claimed crucial scalps and helped put the pressure on the rest of the batters.

Paul Stirling, a seasoned campaigner, also failed to make an impact and was sent packing after a brief stay at the crease. Lorcan Tucker tried to stem the tide, making 33 off 28 balls, but was also dismissed, adding to the growing list of Ireland wickets. Despite this, there was a glimmer of hope as Andy McBrine dug in with a gritty 90-run innings, and Mark Adair supported well with 78 runs. But Zimbabwe’s bowlers, spearheaded by Muzarabani’s stunning ??performance,?? never allowed Ireland to get any real momentum, taking wickets consistently to stifle any potential recovery.

Also READ: ZIM vs IRE 2025, Only Test: Broadcast, Live Streaming details �?When and where to watch in India, ??Pakistan & other count??ries

Zimbabwe’s response: A steady start on Day 1 of the Bulawayo Test

As Zimbabwe set about responding to Ireland’s total, they did so with composure and purpose, ensuring that their chase was methodical rather than rushed. Openers Takudzwanashe Kaitano and Nick Welch played with confidence, making sure that Zimbabwe’s innings didn’t suffer more setbacks after the early loss of Ben Curran. Kaitano, in particular, looked solid, occupying the crease for a well-made 26 off 61 balls, while Welch matched him with 33 not out from 51 balls.  Their 72-run partnership at stumps put Zimbabwe in a relatively strong position, trailing by 188 runs. The two had the opportunity to take control of the?? game, building on their?? steady foundation for the following day. While the run rate of 3.42 may not have been blistering, it was enough to keep Zimbabwe within striking distance of Ireland’s total.

T?he second-best bowling figures for Zimbabwe in a Test innings 👏

Blessing Muzarabani, take a bow 🙌#Cricket #ZIMvIRE #BlessingMuzarabani #zimbabwecricket pic.twitter.com/3TW3iVSqKA

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) February 6, 2025

Also READ: ZIM vs IRE 2025, Only Test: Queens Sports Club Test stats an??d Records, Bulawayo Weather Forecast for all five-days

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The much anticipated one-off Test between Zimbabwe and Ireland is set to commen??ce on Thursday, February 6 at the Qu??eens Sports Club in Bulawayo. The fixture will mark a significant chapter in bilateral cricket between the two sides.

One-off test fixture set to ignite rivalry in Bulawayo

Last July, the teams met for the first time in this format in Belfast, where Ireland produced an engaging three-day performance to secure a riveting win. In that memorable encounter, Andy McBrine emerged as the standout performer with a comprehensive all-round display – recording figures of 3/37, scoring 28, and then contributing an unbeaten 55 along with figures of 4-38 – which earned him the Player of the Match award. Following the Test, the cricketing action will continue as the two sides lock horns in three ODIs and an equal number of T20Is, starting from February 14. This busy schedule provides both teams with an excellent platform to showcase their talent and build momentum ahead of future international engagements.

Zimbabwe’s team: New faces and fitness returns

In preparation for the upcoming one-off Test, Zimbabwe have made a few strategic changes to their squad by naming two uncapped players, thereby giving opportunities to leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa and batter Nicholas Welch. Their inclusion is part of a broader strategy to inject fresh talent into the side and build a competitive u??nit capable of challenging top teams on home soil.

As a result of this shake-up, established players Tadiwanashe Marumani and Dion Myers have been omitted from the Test outfit, signaling a shift in priorities for the selectors. Additionally, Sean Williams, who had been battling a back issue during the previous outing against Afghanistan, has been declared fit, pro??viding much-needed experience and stability to the Zimbabwean batting line-up.

Also READ: ZIM vs IRE 2025, Only Tes??t: Queens Sports ??Club Test stats and Records, Bulawayo Weather Forecast for all five-days

Ireland’s squad adjustments and future prospects

On the Ireland side, Morgan Topping has now been included in both the Test and the upcoming three-match ODI series that will follow the Test. Alongside Topping, Ireland are looking to further bolster their squad by considering the potential inclusion of leg-spinner Gavin Hoey, who made his ODI debut in October last year and is now in line for a Test cap. These selections indicate that Ireland are not only aiming to compete strongly in the one-off Test but are also setting their sights on the longer series that?? follow. With the ODI and T20I matches scheduled to commence from February 14, Ireland are eager to build on their performances and fine-tune their strategies ahead of further international contests.

Squads:

Zimbabwe: Craig Ervine (c), Ben Curran, Joylord Gumbie, Tak??udzwanashe Kaitano, Nyasha Mayavo, Nick Welch, Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Sean Williams, Trevor Gwandu, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Victor Nyauchi and Vincent Masek?esa

Ireland: Andy Balbirnie (c), Peter Moor, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Andy McBrine, Paul Stirling, Gavin Hoey??, Gra?ham Hume, Matthew Humphreys, Barry McCarthy, Craig Young, Morgan Topping.

Zimbabwe vs Ireland, Only Test:  Complete schedule and venue details

• Date: February 06 (Thursday) �?February 10 (Monday), 2025
• Match: Zimbabwe vs Ireland, Only Test
• Venue: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo
• Time: IST: 1:30 PM| GMT: 08:00 AM| Local Time: 10:00 AM

Broadcast and Live Streaming Details:

• India: Fancode
• Pakistan: Geo Super, PTV, Tamasha, Myco
• Bangladesh: Tapmad
• Zimbabwe: ZTN Prime (Channel 294)

Also READ: Champions? Trophy 2025: Zimbabwe T??20I captain Sikandar Raza predicts the four-semifinalists

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

After some breathtaking cricket last time around, Zimbabwe and Ireland are against each other once again to play a one-off Test, 3ODIs and 3T20Is between the two sides. Zimbabwe are set to come back to winning ways after a disappointing outcome of the home series against Afghanistan during which they were dominated by the visitors in all the three formats of the game. Ireland, on the other hand, did win the reverse fixture against the African nation last time around, with a symbolic win against South Africa in the T20I and ODI series.

Ireland tour of Zimbabwe 2025, One-off Test:

• Date and time: February 2, 2025; 01:30 pm IST/ 08:00 am GMT/ 11:00 am local
• Venue: Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo

Queens Sports Club Pitch Report:

The pitch at Queen’s Sports Club is expected to remain predominantly batting-friendly, similar to the conditions during the previous Test encounters. However, there’s a possibility of a light shower that could slightly alter the pitch conditions, introducing some unpredictability. As the Test match progresses, especially in the latter stages, the pitch is anticipated to offer some turn, potentially bringing spin bowlers into the game. This could pose challenges for the batters as the match moves forward. The team winning the toss is likely to choose to bat first. This approach will allow them to set a solid total and apply pressure on the opposing team.

ZIM vs IRE Dream11 Prediction Picks:

• Wicketkeeper: Joylord Gumbie
• Batters: Craig Ervine, Andy Balbirnie, Ben Curran,
• All-rounders: Sean Williams, Andy McBrine,   Johnathan Campbell, Brian Bennett
• Bowlers: Mark Adair, Blessing Muzarabani, Gavin Hoey,

ZIM vs IRE Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

• Choice 1: Craig Ervine (c), Sean Williams (vc)
• Choice 2: Andy Balbirnie (c), Gavin Hoey (vc)

Also Read: Irela??nd announces T20I, ODI and Test squads for Zimbabwe tour??; Joshua Little returns

ZIM vs IRE Dream11 Prediction Backups:

Nyasha Mayavo, Trevor Gwandu, Harry Tector, Matthew?? Humphreys

ZIM vs IRE Dream11 Team for today’s match (February 6, 08:00 am GMT):

Squads:

Zimbabwe: Craig Ervine (c), Ben Curran, Joylord Gumbie, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Nyasha Mayavo, Nick Welch,?? Brian Bennett, Johnathan Campbell, Sean Williams, Trevor Gwandu, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Victor Nyauchi and Vincent Masekesa

Ireland: Andy Balbirnie (c), Peter Moor, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Andy McBr??ine, Paul Stirling, Gavin Hoey, Graham Hume, Matthew Humphreys, Barry McCarthy, Craig Young, Morga??n Topping.

Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Z??imbabwe T20I captain Sikandar Raza predicts the four-semifinalists

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Zimbabwe will host Ireland in a multi-format bilateral series, set to commence on Thursday, February 6. The ser??ies will mark a significant milestone in cricketing history as Zimbabwe and Ireland face off in a one-off Test match, followed by three T20Is and three ODIs. This series is expected to offer intense competition, especially given the growing stature of both teams in international cricket.

A landmark test match for Zimbabwe and Ireland

The Test match holds special significance as it will be the first time Zimbabwe will host Ireland in the longest format. This historic fixture will be only the second-ever Test meeting between the two sides. Their maiden Test encounter took place in July 2023 in Belfast, where Ireland, under the captaincy of Andrew Balbirnie, secured a comfortable four-wicket victory. Zimbabwe will be keen to capitalize on home conditions and seek redemption for that defeat. Given Zimba??bwe��s experience with in their home pitches, the contest could present a challenge for t??he Irish side, which has traditionally thrived in seam-friendly conditions.

Test Stats and Records at Queens Sports Club

• Total Matches: 27
• Matches won batting first: 5
• Matches won bowling first: 12
• Average 1st innings score: 312
• Average 2nd innings score: 401
• Average 3rd innings score: 216
• Average 4th innings score: 177
• Highest total recorded: 713/3 (165.3 Overs) by Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe
• Lowest total recorded: 104/10 (49 Overs) by Zimbabwe vs West Indies

Also READ: Cha?mpions Trophy 20?25: Zimbabwe T20I captain Sikandar Raza predicts the four-semifinalists

ZIM vs IRE, Only test: Bulawayo Weather Forecast

The only Test match between Zimbabwe and Ireland?? at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo is expected to be played under varying weather conditions. The opening two days (Thursday and Friday) will see mostly sunny skies with temperatures hovering around 33°C during the day and dropping to 18°C at night. These conditions should be ideal for cricket, with minimal precipitation expected and relatively dry air, making it fa??vorable for both batters and bowlers.

Moving into the weekend, Saturday will br?ing partly cloudy conditions with temperatures around 31°C, which may introduce some swing for pacers in the morning. However, Sunday is forecasted to have thundershowers, potentially affecting play and causing interruptions. The presence of rain might aid seamers if the moisture lingers on the surface. By Monday, another round of thundershowers is predicted, increasing the likelihood of rain delays on the final day. If the match reaches this stage, weather conditions might play a crucial role in determining the outcome, with a possible draw if significant time is lost due to rain.

Day-wise weather breakdown

Day 1 (Thursday):

• Condition: Mostly sunny
• Temperature: 33°C
• Precipitation: 2%
• Humidity: 26%
• Wind: 19 km/h

Day 2 (Friday):

• Condition: Mostly sunny
• Temperature: 31°C
• Precipitation: 2%
• Humidity: 24%
• Wind: 18 km/h

Day 3 (Saturday):

• Condition: Partly cloudy
• Temperature: 31°C
• Precipitation: 5%
• Humidity: 30%
• Wind: 20 km/h

Day 4 (Sunday):

• Condition: Thundershowers expected
• Temperature: 27°C
• Precipitation: 65%
• Humidity: 60%
• Wind: 22 km/h

Day 5 (Monday):

• Condition: Thundershowers likely
• Temperature: 25°C
• Precipitation: 70%
• Humidity: 65%
• Wind: 21 km/h

Also READ: Zimbabwe unveils multi-format squads for the home se??ries against Ireland

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Afghanistan celebrated a historic triumph in Bulawayo as Rashid Khan’s spectacular seven-wicket haul in the second innings powered them to a commanding 72-run win over Zimbabwe in the second Test at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo. This victory secured a 1-0 series win, marking a significant achievement in Afghanistan’s journey in international Test cricket.

Rashid Khan’s magical spell

The final day of the Test saw Rashid deliver a bowling masterclass that left the Zimbabwean batting lineup in tatters. Starting the day at 205/8 and needing a mammoth effort to reach their target, Zimbabwe’s hopes were quickly dashed. Rashid struck in the second over, removing Richard Ngarava with a sharp delivery, and wrapped up the innings shortly after, finishing with figures of 7/66. His relentless accuracy and turn proved too much for the hosts, cementing his reputation as one of the premier spinners in world cricket.

Afghanistan’s all-round performance in the second innings

Afghanistan set the stage for their victory with a commanding batting display in their second innings. Rahmat Shah and Ismat Alam led the charge with exceptional centuries, scoring 139 and 101, respectively. Their contributions propelled Afghanistan to a formidable total of 363, giving them a crucial ??upper hand.

Chasing 278 for victory, Zimbabwe couldn’t put a fight, with skipper Craig Ervine only being the only half-centurion. The home team fell short of reaching the set target as Rashid and Zia-ur-Rehman (2/44) combined to restrict Zimbabwe to 205.

A landmark moment for Afghanistan

This series win is a testament to Afghanistan’s growing stature in Test cricket. Rashid’s match-winning performance not only highlighted his skills but also underscored Afghanistan’s potential to compete at the highest level.

Congratulations Afghanistan great bowling @rashidkhan_19 and Great batting by @RahmatShah_08 and @IsmatAlam pic.twitter.com/qMUXr666m4

— Mohammad Nabi (@MohammadNabi007) January 6, 2025

Also WATCH: Blessing Muzarabani’s unplayable bouncer to dismiss Rashid Khan on Day 4 of the ZIM vs AFG 2nd Test

His figures of 11 wickets across the match (7/66 in the second innings and 4/94 in the first) played a pivotal role in turning the game in Afghanistan’s favour.

𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 – 𝐑𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐝 𝐊𝐡𝐚𝐧 🤩@rashidkhan_19 (25, 4/94, 23 & 7/66) bagged a well-deserving player of the match award for his incredible contributions in the second test match against Zimbabwe. 🤩🏅#AfghanAtalan | #ZIMvAFG |�?pic.twitter.com/QjVNabM8YT

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) January 6, 2025

Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi praised the team’s collective effort. “First of all, congrats to the entire team, very happy with the way we performed. Coming back after a difficult first day was excellent, but mentally this will make us a lot more stronger. Performances from Rahmat, Ismat and Rashid were outstanding,” he said during the post-match presentation.

Also READ: Top 5 highest opening part??nership? while following-on in Test cricket

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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-wicket 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 Afgh?anistan’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.

Also READ: Travis Head rubs salt on?? India’s WTC and ODI WC agony with an Instagram story after Australia’s BGT victory

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 requir?ing 73 runs to secure 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 Bo??rder-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia

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Sikandar Raza had a very special return to the Zimbabwe Test squad with a remarkable performance with the ball on the first day of the second and final Test against Afghanistan at Queens Sports Club.

Sikandar Raza masterclass proved too much for Afghanistan batters

Sikandar had a stellar performance as he shined during Afghanistan’s 1st innings. The 38-year-old off-spinner managed to get rid of the in-form Rahmat Shah who was bowled out while attempting a paddle scoop on the last delivery of the 30th over. Critically, ?Shah played an impeccable 234-run knock in the previous Test? against Zimbabwe.

Sikandar then bowled out Ismat Alam on a traditional off-spin delivery pitch right in the middle stump, completely beating the lower-order Afghan batter. Alam went back to the pavilion on a duck facing just 2 deliveries. Sikandar’s next target was tailender Yamin Ahmadzai as the arm ball from the off-spinner was too m?uch for the Afghan No.10. Sikandar’s 3 wickets were instrumental in a determined bowling effort from Zimbabwean bowlers to bowl out the Afghans on 157 runs in just 44.3 overs on Day 1 of the match.

Also [WATCH]: Zia-ur-Rehman cleans up? Brandon Mavuta with an absolute jaffa on Day 2 of the first Test

Here’s the video:

The Comeback man on a mission! 💪

Playing his first test in 4 years, Sikandar Raza picked up 3 crucial wickets as Zimbabwe bowled out Afghanistan for just 157 in the 1st innings! 👏#ZIMvAFGonFanCode pic.twitter.com/blNGQH25tm

— FanCode (@FanCode) January 2, 2025

Bowlers dominate as Zimbabwe trail Afghanistan

The 2nd Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan in Bulawayo has been a bowler’s game so far. Afghanistan, batting first, could only muster 157 runs, with Rashid Khan’s brisk 25 standing out. Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Sikandar and Newman Nyamhuri, took three wickets each, exploiting favorable conditions. In reply, Zimbabwe faltered early, slipping to 41/4 by the first session of Day 2, trailing by 116 runs. Fareed Ahmad and Ahmadzai impressed on their Test debuts, taking two wickets each. Day 1 was marred by wet conditions,? leading to a cautious start. With both teams struggling for runs, this low-scoring encounter promises a gripping contest as the game progresses. The onus now lies on Zimbabwe’s middle order to steady the innings and avoid conceding a significant first-innings lead.

Also Read: ZIM vs AFG, 2nd Test: Bulawayo Weather Forecast For? All 5 Days | Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 2024-25

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As Zimbabwe and Afghanistan lock horns once again in the second and final Test match of the series, the memory of raining runs is still fresh in the minds of both the teams. The Queens Sports Club became a paradise for batte??rs of both the teams ?in the previous encounter, even though the match ended in a draw.

The hosts will look forward to continuing the batting streak they gained in the first Test. Afghanistan, however, disappointed at the outcome of the previous Test due to rain on the final day and a bra??ve resistance from Zimbabwean batters, would look forward to claim a series win in Zimbabwe and end the tour with their heads held high.

Queens Sports Club Pitch Report

The pitch at the Queens Sports Club is expected to remain batting-friendly like the Boxing Day Test. However, as on the final day of the prev??ious Test, a gentle shower from the rain gods can change its nature slightly for this Test as well. The pitch is expected to have some turn as the Test match reaches its final days of action. Thus, spin bowlers can cause some trouble to batters as the match progresses.

Weather can play a crucial role in a team’s decision to bat or bowl first after winning the toss. However, given the way pitch has behaved in the previous Test, the team winning the toss will generally tilt towards batting first and exerting scoreboard pressure on the other team.

Test Stats and Records at Queens Sports Club

• Total Matches: 26
• Matches won batting first: 4
• Matches won bowling first: 12
• Average 1st innings score: 318
• Average 2nd innings score: 407
• Average 3rd innings score: 210
• Average 4th innings score: 175
• Highest total recorded: 713/3 (165.3 Overs) by Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe
• Lowest total recorded: 104/10 (49 Overs) by Zimbabwe vs West Indies

Also Read: ZIM vs AFG: After Rahmat Shah, captain Hashmatul??lah Shahidi s??mashes double century for Afghanistan in the first Test at Bulawayo

ZIM vs AFG: Head-to-head record in Test cricket

• Total matches: 3
• Afghanistan won: 1
• Zimbabwe won: 1
• Drawn matches: 1
• Afghanistan’s highest total against Zimbabwe: 699
• Afghanistan’s lowest total Against Zimbabwe: 131
• Zimbabwe’s highest total against Afghanistan: 586
• Zimbabwe’s lowest total against Afghanistan: 250

Squads:

Afghanistan: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Ikram Alikhail (wk), Afsar Zazai (wk), Riaz Hassan, Sediqullah Atal, Abdul Malik, Baheer Shah Mahboob, Ismat Alam, Azmatullah Omarzai, Zahir Khan, Zia Ur Rehman Akbar, Zahir Shehzad, Rashid Khan, Ya?min Ahmadzai, Bashir Ahmad Afghan, Naveed Z??adran, and Fareed Ahmad Malik.

Zimbabwe: Craig Ervine (c), Ben Curran, Brian Benn??ett, Johnathan Campbell, Takudzwa Chataira, Joylord Gumbie, Trevor Gwandu, Takudzwanashe Kaitano, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brandon Mavuta, Nyasha Mayavo, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Sikanda?r Raza, Sean Williams.

Also Read: Bulawayo’s Boxing Day Test betw?een Zimbabwe and Afghanistan ends in a ??run fest draw

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.