
The cricketing action in Bulawayo reached a fever pitch as the first Test match between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan concluded in an exhilarating draw. The five-day encounter, held at the Queens Sports Club from December 26-30, 2024, showcased the determination and skill of both teams, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
Zimbabwe, winning the toss, opted to bat first and set a solid foundation with a commanding total of 586 runs in their first innings. Afghanistan responded with equal fervor, amassing an impressive 699 runs, led by Rahmat Shah’s brilliant knock of 234 runs. Zimbabwe’s second innings ended at 142/4, with Sean Williams and Craig Ervine standing resilient to secure the draw.
The match was historic for Afghanistan, as they posted their maiden 600-plus total in just their 10th Test match. Shahid was named Player of the Match for his sensational career-best 246 runs, marking his second Test double century and further cementing his reputation as a rising star in international cricket.
This thrilling Test followed an electrifying ODI series, where Afghanistan clinched the third match decisively, winning by eight wickets with 139 balls to spare. The spotlight shone on 18-year-old offspinner AM Ghazanfar, who dazzled with figures of 5/33, while Zimbabwe’s Sean Williams top-scored with 60 runs in a valiant effort.
In the T20I series, Zimbabwe claimed a notable victory in the first match, winning by four wickets. Brian Bennett emerged as the hero, scoring 49 runs in a milestone match that marked his 100th international appearance for Zimbabwe. A consistent performer throughout his career, Bennett boasts 102 wickets in 100 matches, with an average of 2.04 wickets per game, further solidifying his legacy in Zimbabwean cricket.
The stage is now set for the second Test match, scheduled from January 2-6, 2025, at Queens Sports Club. Cricket fans are eagerly awaiting another chapter of this thrilling Zimbabwe-Afghanistan rivalry.
[Source: ICC]