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Zimbabwe and Afghanistan clashed in a gripping second day of the second test in Bulawayo, where the balance of power shifted frequently, leaving Zimbabwe with a slim 40-run lead at stumps. The day was marked by fluctuating fortunes, with both teams showing their skills on a challenging course that tested the players’ temperament.
First fights for Zimbabwe on day 2
Resuming their innings at 6 without loss after bowling out Afghanistan for 157, Zimbabwe’s top order encountered immediate difficulties.. Joy Lord Gumbie was the first to fall, overcoming a delivery of Fareed Ahmad to Abdul Malik on the second slip. This set the tone for a shaky start as Yamin Ahmadzai he quickly followed up with another wicket, trapping We wish you good health on the side of the leg. The hosts found themselves in a desperate situation at 16 to 2, and shortly after, Ben Curran fell victim to a Fareed try, leaving Zimbabwe reeling at 32 for 3.
With the increase in pressure, Dion Myers He was promoted to number 5 but could not resist the attack. He tried to fight back, but hit a cut shot to slip, pushing Zimbabwe further into trouble at 41 for 4. At this point, Afghanistan looked set to take control of the match.
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Resilience on display by Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza
Just when it looked like Zimbabwe might collapse, Craig Ervin and Sikandar Raza stepped forward to stabilize the entries. The duo added 71 runs for the fifth wicket, with Ervine displaying calm composure and Raza providing aggressive counterplay. Raza, playing his first Test since 2021, reached his half-century with a classy drive between the sheets, while Ervine also brought up his fifty shortly before tea.
Despite suffering a back injury, Sean Williams joined the fray and contributed significantly with 49 brisk runs. His determination was evident as he attacked players with confidence, even while fighting discomfort. Together, they powered Zimbabwe to a total of 243, establishing a significant 86-run lead in the first innings.
Afghanistan’s shaky start to second innings
With a modest target set by Zimbabwe, Afghanistan’s second innings began under pressure. Muzarabani Blessing He struck early by dismissing Malik for just one run. The Afghan batting line-up continued to falter as Muzarabani claimed another wicket, leaving Afghanistan at a precarious 18 for 2.
Hashmatullah Shahidi and Rahmat Shah They attempted to rebuild their innings but faced relentless pressure from the Zimbabwe players. Raza made a significant impact by dismissing Shahidi just before the stumps, leaving Afghanistan reeling at 46 for 3.
The day concluded with Afghanistan trailing by 40 runs but with seven wickets still in hand. The pitch continued to be a challenge for batting and both teams had opportunities to take control. Zimbabwe’s players were disciplined and effective, while Afghanistan needed to regroup and create partnerships if they were to set a competitive target.
Stumps, day 2
Zimbabwe got three wickets!
Afghanistan finishes at 46/3, 40 runs behind#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝https://t.co/HdHfDCXyud pic.twitter.com/Q1BW9u2Irt
– Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 3, 2025
