Sean Williams scored an unbeaten 145 runs as Zimbabwe reached 363 for four on the first day of the Test against Afghanistan in Bulawayo. Notable performances included Ben Curran with 68 runs and Captain Craig Ervine with 56 not out. The Afghan bowling attack struggled against the Zimbabwean lineup, marking a significant day for the home team.
In the inaugural day of the first test match at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, veteran middle-order batsman Sean Williams achieved an impressive unbeaten score of 145, propelling Zimbabwe to a commanding total of 363 for four against Afghanistan. At 38 years old, Williams came in to bat at the number four position after the dismissal of debutant opener Ben Curran, who contributed 68 runs to the innings.
Williams formed crucial partnerships, including a notable 143-run collaboration with captain Craig Ervine, who remained not out on 56. The left-handed batsman struck three sixes and nine fours during his innings off 161 deliveries, marking his fifth Test century. He now seeks to surpass his personal best of 151, last recorded in a match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi three years prior.
While Zimbabwe’s batting lineup performed commendably, only Joylord Gumbie failed to score in double figures, dismissed for nine runs. The Afghan bowling attack, led by teenage off-spinner Allah Ghazanfar who secured two wickets, struggled with consistency and was marred by poor fielding throughout the day, ultimately unable to contain the Zimbabwean batters effectively.
Both teams have not secured a Test victory since their previous encounter in the UAE three years ago, underscoring the significance of this match for both sides.
Zimbabwe 363-4 in 85 overs (Sean Williams 145 not out, Ben Curran 68, Craig Ervine 56 not out, Takudzwanashe Kaitano 46; Allah Ghazanfar 2-83) v Afghanistan. Toss: Zimbabwe.
The Test match between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan marks an important event for both teams, who are simultaneously seeking to improve their standings after a lengthy period without a Test victory. Zimbabwe, particularly, has faced challenges in recent series, experiencing defeats in white-ball formats. The performance of veteran players such as Sean Williams has become critical to the team’s success, showcasing their experience in high-pressure situations. The match is also notable as it is the first Boxing Day Test hosted by Zimbabwe since a rain-affected draw against England 28 years prior.
In conclusion, Sean Williams’s remarkable innings of 145 not out leads Zimbabwe to a formidable position on the first day of their Test match against Afghanistan. With essential contributions from other players, the team displayed significant resilience and skill. The Afghan bowlers, however, were unable to maintain consistent pressure on the batsmen. This match not only provides an opportunity for Zimbabwe to secure a long-awaited Test victory but also highlights the ongoing competitive spirit between these two nations in the realm of cricket.
Original Source: www.france24.com
