In the first Test against Zimbabwe, Rahmat Shah scored a record-breaking 231 not out, leading Afghanistan to 425 for two at the end of the third day. He and Hashmatullah Shahidi, who scored 141 not out, formed an unbeaten 361-run partnership. Zimbabwe, after a commanding 586 in their first innings, holds a 161-run lead. This impressive performance reflects Afghanistan’s growing capabilities in Test cricket.
Rahmat Shah delivered a stellar performance with an Afghanistan Test record of 231 not out, leading his team in a remarkable fightback against Zimbabwe during the first Test. He formed a formidable partnership with Hashmatullah Shahidi, resulting in an unbeaten 361-run stand on the third day of the match. Shahidi contributed significantly with a solid 141 not out. After resuming the day at 95 for two, Afghanistan finished the day on 425 for two at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Zimbabwe, who previously set a towering first innings total of 586, currently holds a 161-run lead as they prepare for the fourth day of play. Rahmat Shah’s score surpasses the previous highest individual score for Afghanistan, held by Shahidi with 200 not out against Zimbabwe back in 2020. Shah’s innings consisted of 416 balls, incorporating three sixes and 23 fours, marking a personal best after his last highest score of 102 in 2019.
During his milestone innings, Shah achieved his century off a single and eventually reached the double century with a four. On the other hand, Shahidi expertly supported him, playing 276 balls and hitting 16 fours, making his century with a pull shot off debutant Newman Nyamhuri. The Zimbabwean bowlers struggled throughout the day, exhibiting inconsistencies in their bowling and fielding efforts. Despite Trevor Gwandu claiming one wicket, he also ended as the most costly bowler for Zimbabwe, conceding 86 runs.
This Test presents a crucial contest for Zimbabwe as they pursue their first Test win since defeating Afghanistan three years prior, following Afghanistan’s victories in the preceding T20 and ODI series. The second Test is scheduled to commence on January 2.
This article highlights a significant cricket match between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe, specifically focusing on Rahmat Shah’s exceptional performance in the first Test. The context revolves around Afghanistan’s continued development on the international Test stage since their debut in 2018. With a backdrop of previous successes in shorter formats of the game, this Test series represents a critical opportunity for Afghanistan to assert their capabilities in the longer format against a challenging Zimbabwean side. Understanding the historical performance and statistics enriches the appreciation of Shah’s record-setting innings and Afghanistan’s collective endeavor in this match.
In summary, Rahmat Shah’s remarkable double century and his partnership with Hashmatullah Shahidi propelled Afghanistan to a strong position against Zimbabwe on day three of the first Test. Their batting prowess displayed resilience and highlighted the team’s potential in Test cricket, while Zimbabwe’s difficulties in bowling and fielding underscored areas for improvement. As the match progresses into the fourth day, Afghanistan is poised to challenge Zimbabwe’s lead, with the audience eager to witness the unfolding drama of this match.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
