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On day 2 of the first test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, Afghanistan’s left arm spinner Zia-ur-Rehman provided a much-needed breakthrough for his team. Cleanly bowled Zimbabwe’s lower order batsman, Brandon’s problemwho was fired by a duck. The wicket came in Zimbabwe’s 111th innings, when Mavuta faced just two deliveries.
The firing of Brandon Mavuta: a classic delight for the off-kilter
In a beautifully executed delivery, Rehman bowled a left-arm spin that fell on the leg stump and swung sharply to hit the top of the stump. Mavuta, trying to defend himself, played on the wrong line and the ball turned brutally to hit the stumps. The dismissal came at a critical moment, when Mavuta was sent packing for a duck. Rehman’s celebration was a testament to the quality of his bowling and was a crucial wicket for Afghanistan.
Here is the video:
— Acb Xtra (@123of143) December 27, 2024
Before taking the Mavuta wicket, Rehman had already made an impact by dismissing the Zimbabwe captain. Craig Ervine. Ervine, who had been in excellent form, was Zimbabwe’s top scorer with a magnificent 104 runs. His dismissal at such a crucial time brought some relief to Afghanistan, easing the pressure on its players. Rehman’s timely breakthroughs were instrumental in curbing Zimbabwe’s dominant momentum.
READ ALSO: Zimbabwe fireworks hit all-time high against Afghanistan on day two of Boxing Day Test
Zimbabwe’s dominant batting performance
Despite Rehman’s efforts, Zimbabwe’s batting performance in their first innings was exceptional. After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Zimbabwe posted a mammoth total of 586. The innings featured three centurions: Sean Williams, Brian Bennettand the aforementioned Ervine. Zimbabwe’s batsmen were in complete control and their partnership steadily built, leaving Afghanistan struggling to break through.
Afghanistan’s response has been challenging, as they reached 95 for the loss of two wickets at the end of day 2. They trail Zimbabwe by a massive 491 runs, facing an uphill battle to match Zimbabwe’s total.
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