Rahmat Shah scored an unbeaten 231, leading Afghanistan to 425-2 on day three of the first Test against Zimbabwe, who set a record 586 runs in their first innings. Shahidi supported with 141, forming a notable 361-run partnership with Shah. Afghanistan aims to chase down a target of 161 runs as they continue their campaign against Zimbabwe.
Rahmat Shah achieved a remarkable feat in Afghanistan’s cricketing history by scoring an unbeaten 231 runs, leading his team to a dominant position of 425-2 at the end of day three in the first Test against Zimbabwe. His innings included an impressive display of batting, featuring three sixes and 23 fours, and he formed a substantial partnership with captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, who contributed with a solid 141 runs. The duo’s partnership of 361 runs stands as a testament to their ability to dominate the Zimbabwean attack, which failed to capitalize throughout the day, marking it as only the 26th occasion in Test cricket where a team has gone an entire day without losing a wicket. Previously, the highest score for an Afghan player in a Test match was set by Shahidi himself when he scored 200* against Zimbabwe in 2020. Moreover, Zimbabwe had set a daunting first-innings total of 586 runs, featuring outstanding performances from Sean Williams, Craig Ervine, and Brian Bennett. As Afghanistan heads into day four, they find themselves trailing Zimbabwe by 161 runs, yet with their record-setting partnership, they remain in contention to challenge the leading total.
This significant Test match showcases Afghanistan’s developing cricketing prowess as they engage with Zimbabwe in a series that follows their successful T20 and ODI performances. The match context is further enriched by Zimbabwe setting their historic score of 586 runs in the first innings. This illustrates both teams’ recent progress in international cricket and reflects their competitive spirit. Rahmat Shah’s individual score not only signifies a personal achievement but also represents Afghanistan’s increasing capabilities on the Test stage.
To summarize, Rahmat Shah’s outstanding 231 runs mark a historic moment for Afghanistan in the Test format, reflecting their strengthening position in international cricket. His partnership with Hashmatullah Shahidi, alongside Zimbabwe’s formidable first-innings total of 586, sets the stage for an intriguing encounter as the match progresses into its fourth day. Both teams exhibit remarkable talent, which emphasizes the competitive nature of the current series.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
