Australia’s recent triumph in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 against India was part of their sustained dominance in?? Test cricket, particularly in home conditions. Over the years, Australia have established itself as a formidable force in Test cricket,? consistently producing world-class performances and dominating both their traditional rivals and emerging teams.

Australia’s dominance in test cricket

The BGT 2024/25 showcased Australia’s Test supremacy, especially on their home grounds. In the 1st Test at Perth, Australia suffered a heavy loss to Indi??a, but their resilience and ability to bounce back were evident as they won next three out of four to retained the prestigious trophy. Australia’s consistent dominance in Test cricket, particularly at home, is driven by their strong team structure, experienced players, and a formidable bowling attack. This success reinforces Australia’s status as one of the leading teams in Test cricket, capable of overcoming top-quality opponents across all conditions.

Australia’s performance against each cricketing nation in recent Test matches:

1. Australia vs West Indies: Frank Worrell Trophy 2023/24

Australia and West Indies clashed in the 2023/24 Frank Worre??ll Trophy, showcasing intense competition across the two-match s??eries. In the 1st Test at Adelaide (Jan 17�?9), Australia dominated with a 10-wicket win, bowling out the West Indies for 188 and 120 while chasing down 26 runs. The 2nd Test in Brisbane (Jan 25�?8) was closely contested, with the West Indies securing an 8-run victory. Their 311 and 193 set up a target of 216, which Australia fell short of, managing only 207 in their second innings. Both matches highlighted crucial moments of resilience and determined effort from both teams, keeping the series competitive till the end.

2. Australia vs New Zealand: Two-match test series 2023/24

Australia showcased their dominance with a 2-0 series victory against New Zealand in the 2023/24 Test series. The 1st Test in Wellington (Feb 29–Mar 3) saw Australia triumph by 172 runs, setting scores of 383 and 164 while restricting New Zealand to 179 and 196. The visitors’ all-round performance set the tone for the series. The 2nd Test in Christchurch (Mar 8�?1) was a nail-biter. Chasing 279, Australia reached 281/7, sealing a thrilling 3-wicket win after New Zealand’s resilient second-innings effort of 372. With a blend of resilience and precision, Australia delivered key moments across both matches, securing a clean sweep and reaffirming their strength in the longest format.

3. Australia vs Zimbabwe: Two-match test series 2003

The 2003 Test series between Zimbabwe ??and Australia featured two dominant performances by Australia. In the 1st Test held at the W.A.C.A. Ground, Perth (Oct 9�?3), Australia secured a compre?hensive win by an innings and 175 runs. Zimbabwe were bowled out for just 59 and 77 in their two innings, while Australia posted a dominant total. The 2nd Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (Oct 17�?0) saw Australia continue their dominance, winning by 9 wickets. Zimbabwe managed only 187 and 171, while Australia chased down 145 comfortably. Australia’s strength with both bat and ball ensured a commanding series win.

4. Australia vs Sri Lanka: Two-match test series 2022

The Warne-Muralitharan Trophy 2022 showcased two distinct outcomes in the Test series between Australia and Sri Lanka. In the 1st Test held at Galle (June 29 – July 1, 2022), Australia dominated with a resounding 10-wicket victory. After dismissing Sri Lanka for 212 and 113, Australia posted 321 in their only innings and chased down a low target of 5 runs with ease. The 2nd Test, also at Galle (July 8 – 11, 2022), witnessed a stunning turnaround by Sri Lanka, who secured an emphatic innings and 39-run victory. Sri Lanka’s batting dominance was evident as they posted a massive 554 in their only innings. In contrast, Australia struggled with 364 and 151, unable to counter Sri Lanka’s strong performance.

Also READ: Steve Smith likely to lead Australia in the absence of Pat Cummins for Sri Lanka Tests �???Reports

5. Australia vs Pakistan: Three-match test series 2023/24

The Benaud-Qadir Trophy 2023/24 featured a dominant performance by Australia, as they claimed a comprehensive series victory over Pakistan. In the 1st Test at Perth (December 14 – 17, 2023), Australia secured a commanding 360-run win. After posting 487 and 233/5 declared, they bowled Pakistan out for 271 and 89. The 2nd Test in Melbourne (December 26 – 29, 2023) saw Australia continue their dominance, winning by 79 runs. They scored 318 and 262, while Pakistan managed 264 and 237. In the 3rd Test at Sydney (January 3 – 6, 2024), Australia sealed the series with an 8-wicket victory. Pakistan were dismissed for 313 and 115, while Australia replied with 299 and 130/2.

6. Australia vs Bangladesh: Three-match test series 2017

The Australia in Bangladesh Test Series of 2017 provided an intense battle between the two sides, showcasing contrasting performances in both Tests. In the 1st Test at Mirpur (August 27 – 30, 2017), Bangladesh emerged triumphant by a narrow margin of 20 runs. After scoring 260 and 221, Bangladesh’s bowlers fought hard to dismiss Australia for 217 and 244, capitalizing on crucial breakthroughs. The Bangladesh batting lineup held their nerve in the final sessions, securing a historic victory.

The 2nd Test, held at Chattogram (September 4 – 7, 2017), saw Australia mount a strong comeback to clinch a 7-wicket win. Despite Bangladesh’s 305 and 157, Australia’s resilient batting, led by Steve Smith’s 110, responded with 377 in their first innings. Their bowlers then restricted Bangladesh to just 87 runs in the second innings, allowing Australia to chase down 86 with minimal resistance.

7. Australia vs South Africa: Three-match test series 2022-23

The South Africa in Australia Test Series 2022/23 featured three closely contested matches, with Australia dominating the series. In the 1st Test held at Brisbane (December 17 – 18, 2022), Australia emerged victorious by 6 wickets after dismissing South Africa for just 152 and 99. Australia replied with 218 and successfully chased down the target of 35 runs, demonstrating resilience in tough conditions.

The 2nd Test at Melbourne (December 26 – 29, 2022) saw Australia crush South Africa by an innings and 182 runs. South Africa was bowled out for 189 and 204, while Australia posted a mammoth 575/8 declared, setting up a commanding lead and sealing the win. In the 3rd Test at Sydney (January 4 – 8, 2023), a draw was declared as South Africa managed to survive with 255 and 106/2 after Australia declared at 475/4. The match concluded with Australia unable to break through, leaving the series at 2-0 in their favor.

8. Australia vs England: Five-match test series 2023

The Ashes 2023 was a closely fought series between England and Australia, showcasing thrilling cricket throughout. In the 1st Test at Birmingham (June 16-20, 2023), Australia edged past England by 2 wickets after a nail-biting chase. England posted 393/8 declared and 273, but Australia’s 386 and 282/8 secured a narrow win. The 2nd Test at Lord’s (June 28 – July 02, 2023) saw another Australian victory, this time by 43 runs. Australia made 416 and 279, while England managed 325 and 327.

The 3rd Test at Leeds (July 6-9, 2023) went to England, who won by 3 wickets. En?gland chased down Australia’s 263 and 224 with 237 and 254/7. In the 4th Test at Manchester (July 19-23, 2023), both teams shared points as the match ended in a draw, with England scoring 592 and Australia making 317 and 214/5. The 5th Test at The Oval (July 27-31, 2023) saw England clinch the series with a 49-run win. England posted 283 and 395, while Australia managed 295 and 334, leaving the series 2-2.

9. Australia vs India: Five-match test series 2024-25

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Cricket Ireland has officially announced their squads for the all-format tour of Zimbabwe, a series eagerly awaited by fans and players alike. Ireland’s squads will be led by experienced captains Andrew Balbirnie in the Test format and Paul Stirling in the ODIs and T20Is, showcasing a blend of? stability and aggressive leadership.

Ireland’s all-format tour of Zimbabwe

The tour kicks off with a historic one-off Test match at the iconic Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, scheduled from February 6-10, 2025. This match is particularly momentous as it marks the first time Zimbabwe will host Ireland in the longest format, underlining the growing camaraderie and competition bet?ween these two nations. Following the Test, the action shifts to Harare for three ODIs on February 14, 16, and 18, followed by an exciting three-match T20I series on February 22, 23, and 25. All six limited-overs matches will be played at the Harare?? Sports Club, promising thrilling cricketing battles in both formats.

New talent and key inclusions in Ireland’s squad

Ireland’s squad sees exciting new inclusions, with Morgan Topping earning his maiden call-up to both the Test and ODI squads. His selection reflects Cricket Ireland’s commitment to nurturing young talent for the rigors of international cricket. Gavin Hoey, who debuted in October, retains his place in the ODI squad a??nd is poised for a potential Test debut, markin??g another step forward in his budding career.

The return of paceman Joshua Little to the white-ball squads significantly bolsters Ireland’s bowling attack, providing both experience and aggression. Additionally, Gareth Delany and Barry McCarthy, returning from injuries, add depth to the side, while Craig Young’s omission from the T20 squad underscores the competition for p?laces.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Prasidh Krishna provides vital update on in?jured Jasprit?? Bumrah after Day 2 of SCG Test

Zimbabwe’s current form and historic test rivalry

This Test will be only the second meeting between Ireland and Zimbabwe in the longest format. Their first encounter, held in Belfast in July 2024, ended in a thr??illing four-wicket victory for Ireland, a match remembered for its nail-biting finish and high-quality performances.

Zimbabwe enter this series after a demanding multi-format home campaign against Afghanistan, where they lost the T20I and ODI series 2-1 and 2-0, respectively. However, they showed resilience in the Test format, securing a draw in the rain-affected first match before competing in the ongoing second Test. With home advantage and the momentum fro??m a hard-fought series, Zimbabwe will aim to challen??ge Ireland across formats.

Ireland squads for the 2025 Zimbabwe tour: 

Test squad

• Andrew Balbirnie (c)
• Mark Adair
• Curtis Campher
• Gavin Hoey
• Graham Hume
• Matthew Humphreys
• Andrew McBrine
• Barry McCarthy
• PJ Moor
• Paul Stirling
• Harry Tector
• Morgan Topping
• Lorcan Tucker
• Craig Young

ODI squad

• Paul Stirling (c)
• Mark Adair
• Andrew Balbirnie
• Curtis Campher
• George Dockrell
• Gavin Hoey
• Graham Hume
• Matthew Humphreys
• Josh Little
• Andrew McBrine
• Barry McCarthy
• Harry Tector
• Morgan Topping
• Lorcan Tucker
• Craig Young

T20I squad

• Paul Stirling (c)
• Mark Adair
• Ross Adair
• Curtis Campher
• Gareth Delany
• George Dockrell
• Graham Hume
• Matthew Humphreys
• Josh Little
• Barry McCarthy
• Neil Rock
• Harry Tector
• Lorcan Tucker
• Ben White

Zimbabwe vs Ireland 2024: Complete schedule and fixture details

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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. Beginning the day?? in a precarious position at 46/3, Afghanistan faced i??mmense 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 milestone 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 Afghanistan’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 Rahmat 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, Afghanistan 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 t??o Rahmat’s unyielding focus, providing a glimmer of hope for a recovery.

Also WATC???H: Sean Williams exhibits exceptional sportsmanship after being declared not out by the umpire on Day 2 of the second Test

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 a??dded 132 runs for the eight wicket, stabilizing the?? innings and frustrating the opposition.

Rahmat’s shot selection was impeccable; he balanced solid defense with calculated aggression, punishing anything overpitched 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 further. Alam, in particular, counter-attacked effectively, finding boundaries with eas??e and ensuri??ng 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 sign?ificant 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 save 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 Bulawayo as AfghanAtalan reached 291??/7, leading by 205 run??s.

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

Also READ: IPL 2025: 3 reasons why Rashid Khan can replace Shubman Gill as Gujarat Ti?tans�?captain

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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 reputation as the leadi??ng wicket-taker for Afghanistan.

Also R?EAD: IPL 2025: 3 reasons why Rashid Khan can replace Shubman Gill as Gujarat Titans�?captain

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, Afghanistan will aim to establish a significant lead to put Zimbabwe unde??r 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 s??ecure a series victory. The contest remains evenly poised, with Zimbabwe and Afghanistan each vying? to outplay the other over the remaining days.

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG: After Ra??hmat Shah, captain Hashmatullah Shahidi smashes double century for Af?ghanistan in the first Test at Bulawayo

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Zimbabwe and Afghanistan faced off in a gripping second day of the second Test in Bulawayo, where the balance of power shifted frequently, leaving Zimbabwe with a slim 40-run lead at stumps. The day ?was marked by fluctuating fortunes, with both teams showcasing their skills on a challenging pitch that tested the temperament of the players.

Early struggles for Zimbabwe on Day 2

Resuming their innings at 6 for no loss after bowling Afghanistan out for 157, Zimbabwe’s top order encountered immediate difficulties. Joylord Gumbie was the first to fall, edging a delivery from Fareed Ahmad to Abdul Malik at second slip. This set the tone for a shaky start as Yamin Ahmadzai quickly followed up with another wicket, trapping Takudzwanashe Kaitano down the leg side. The hosts found themselves in dire straits at 16 for 2, and soon after, Ben Curran fell victim to an in-ducker from Fareed, l??eaving Zimbabwe reeling at 32 for 3.

With the pressure mounting, Dion Myers was promoted to No. 5 but could not withsta??nd the onslaught. He attempted to counterattack but nicked a cut shot to slip, pushing Zimbabwe further into trouble a??t 41 for 4. At this point, Afghanistan seemed poised to take control of the match.

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

Resilience on display by Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza

Just when it appeared that Zimbabwe might collapse, Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza stepped up to stabilize the i??nnings. The duo added 71 runs for the fifth wicket, with Ervine displaying calm composure and Raza providing aggressive counterplay. Raza, playing his first Test since 2021, reached his half-century with an elegant drive through the covers, while Ervine also brought?? up his fifty shortly before tea.

Despite suffering from a back injury, Sean Williams joined the fray and contributed significantly with a brisk 49 runs. His determination was evident as he attacked the bowlers with confidence, even as he battled discomfort. Together, they propelled Zimbabwe to a total of 243 all out, e?stablishing an important first-innings lead of 86 runs.

Afghanistan’s shaky start in second innings

With a modest target set by Zimbabwe, Afghanistan’s second innings began under pressure. Blessing Muzarabani struck early by dismissing Malik for just one run. The Afghan batting lineup continued to falter as Muzarabani claimed another wicket, ??leaving Afghanistan at a precarious 18 for 2.

Hashmatullah Shahidi and Rahmat Shah sought to reb?uild their innings but faced relentless pressure from Zimbabwe’s bowlers. Raza made a significant impac?t by dismissing Shahidi just before stumps, leaving Afghanistan reeling at 46 for 3.

The day concluded with Afghanistan trailing by 40 runs but with seven wickets still in hand. The pitch remained challenging for batting, and both teams had opportunities to seize control. Zimbabwe’s bowlers were disciplined and effective, while Afghanistan needed to regroup and build partnerships if they were to set a competitive target.

Stumps, Day 2

Zimbabwe picked up three wickets!

Afghanistan finish on 46/3, trailing by 40 runs#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝//t.co/HdHfDCXyud pic.twitter.com/Q1BW9u2Irt

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 3, 2025

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

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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 stages, ex?pertly cleaning up the tail. The collective effort restricted Afghanistan to a mere 157, as Zimbabwe’s bowlers worked in tan?dem 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 counterattacking 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 them up for a dominan??t 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, 2nd Test?: Queens Sports Club Pitch Report, Bulawayo Test stats ??and Records

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On Thursday, January 2, Sri Lanka’s wicket-keeper batter Kusal Perera etched his name in cricketing history by smashing an awe-inspiring century in the third T20I of the Sri Lanka tour of New Zealand 2024-25 at Saxton Oval, Nelson. Perera’s explosive knock of 101 off just 46 balls, laced with 13 fours and 4 towering sixes, not only led his t??eam to a thrilling 7-run victory but also earned him the title of Player of the Match. This feat places him in an elite club of Sri Lankan legends who have achieved centuries in T20 internationals.

List of Sri Lankan T20I centurions

Mahela Jayawardene

The first Sri Lankan to achieve a T20I century was the legendary Mahela Jayawardene. Known for his elegant stroke play across all formats, Jayawardene reached this milestone on May 3, 2010, during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Playing against Zimbabwe at Providence, he crafted a magnificent 100 off 64 balls, including 10 fours and 4 sixes. His century was instrumental in securing a 14-run victory for Sri Lanka, cementing h??is legacy as one of the finest batters in the game.

Also READ: Twitter reaction?s: Kusal Perera’s brilliant ton seals victo?ry for Sri Lanka in the thrilling final T20I against New Zealand

Tillakaratne Dilshan

The second Sri Lankan to score a T20I century was the versatile opener Tillakaratne Dilshan. On August 6, 2011, during the Australia tour of Sri Lanka, Dilshan? smashed an unbeaten 104 off 57 ball??s in Kandy. His innings, featuring 12 fours and 5 sixes, helped Sri Lanka secure a commanding 35-run victory. Known for his aggressive style and innovative shots, Dilshan’s century further solidified his reputation as a T20 specialist.

Kusal Perera

In the latest chapter of Sri Lanka’s T20I history, Perera’s scintillating knock against New Ze?aland not only brought victory but also placed him among the greats. With this innings, Perera joins Jayawardene and Dilshan in the elite club of Sri Lankan T20I centurions. His record-breaking performance underscores his ability to rise to the occasion and deliver when it matters most.

Perera’s century marks only the third instance of a Sri Lankan batter reaching the three-figure mark in T20Is, making him a standout performer in the format. The 34-year-old’s brilliant innings comes over 13 years after the last Sri Lankan T20I century, further highlighting the significance of h??is achievement. Perera’s consistent performances reaffirm his status as Sri Lanka’s leading run-scorer in the T20I format w?ith 2056 runs.

Also READ: Sri Lanka announces ODI squad for New Zealand tour; Charith Asalanka to?? lead

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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 Clu??b, Bulawayo. Both teams will aim for a decisive victory after the first Test ended in a high-scori??ng 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 pe??rformance, amassing 699 runs. The visitors were led by br?illiant 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 showers forecasted throug?hout? the match:

Thursday (Day 1): Moderate rai??n with a 70% chance of precipitation could lead to dela?ys.

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

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

Sunday (Day 4): Moderate rain with an 80% chance o??f precipitation could still disrupt proceed?ings.

Monday (Day 5): Ra??in persists, but a relatively lower 65% precipitation forecast offers a glimmer of 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 hoping for ??clear spells to decide 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

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

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 se?cond innings, ensuring the game e?nded 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.

Also READ: Can India reach the WTC 2023-25 final? Here’s how standings look aft?er Australia’s Melbourne 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 Bennet?t’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 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 p??ositives ?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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