Afghanistan ended Day 4 at 515/3, just 71 runs short of Zimbabwe’s total of 586 in the first Test. Rain interrupted play, limiting the day to 31 overs. Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi initially anchored the innings before Shah’s dismissal. Afsar Zazai and Shahidi continued, ensuring Afghanistan’s progress as they approach a crucial Day 5.
On Day 4 of the first Test match between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe, rain disrupted play significantly, limiting the day to merely 31 overs. Afghanistan ended the day at 515/3, just 71 runs shy of Zimbabwe’s first-innings total of 586. Starting the day at 425/2, the partnership between Rahmat Shah (234) and Hashmatullah Shahidi (179) was pivotal but was cut short early when debutant Newman Nyamhuri dismissed Shah, pushing Afghanistan to 428/3.
Following this setback, Afghanistan continued to display resilience and resolve. Afsar Zazai joined Shahidi, and together they formed a successful half-century partnership, propelling Afghanistan past the 500-run mark during the lunch break at 507/3. As the match progressed, Shahidi reached 150 for the second time in his Test career, while Zazai was on 46*, both appearing settled and poised for further contributions.
However, the afternoon session faced disruption as rain halted play shortly after Shahidi added eight runs to his score. Despite attempts to resume, the persistent rain led the umpires to call off play for the day, leaving Afghanistan at 515/3 as they approach Day 5. They require just 71 additional runs to exceed Zimbabwe’s total, with both Shahidi and Zazai remaining at the crease, determined to press forward in their innings.
The ongoing two-match Test series between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe showcases Afghanistan’s quest to establish itself in the longer format of the game. The first match, taking place in Bulawayo, highlights the challenges posed by weather conditions in cricket, particularly in Test matches wherein consistent play can become critical to team performance. Both teams look to make their mark amidst the fluctuating nature of play, as seen prominently on Day 4.
In summary, Afghanistan made notable progress on Day 4 of their Test match against Zimbabwe, finishing with 515/3 following a significant rain interruption. Despite the stoppages, both Shahidi and Zazai have set a solid foundation for achieving Zimbabwe’s first-innings total on the upcoming Day 5. Cricket enthusiasts will look forward to how they navigate through the remaining runs needed to surpass their opponent’s score.
Original Source: www.geosuper.tv
