Skip to contentPhysical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Zimbabwe i Afghanistan faced off on a thrilling second day of the second Test in Bulawayo, where the balance of power shifted frequently, leaving Zimbabwe with a slim lead of 40 runs at stumps. The day was marked by fluctuating fortunes, with both teams proving their mettle on a challenging pitch that tested the players’ temperaments.
First fights for Zimbabwe on day 2
Resuming their innings at 6 for no loss after batting Afghanistan out for 157, Zimbabwe’s top order encountered immediate difficulties.. Joylord Gumbie was the first to fall, beating a delivery of Fareed Ahmad a Abdul Malik in the second slide. This set the tone for a shaky start Yamin Ahmadzai he quickly followed up with another wicket, catching We wish you good health on the side of the leg. The hosts found themselves in dire straits at 16 for 2, and soon after, Ben Curran he fell victim to a Fareed ducker, leaving Zimbabwe reeling at 32 for 3.
With pressure mounting, Dion Myers he rose to number 5 but could not withstand the onslaught. He tried to fight back but cut 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.
READ also: ZIM vs AFG 2nd Test: Bulawayo 5 Day Weather Forecast | Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 2024-25
Resilience on display by Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza
Just when it looked like Zimbabwe might collapse, Craig Ervine i Sikandar Raza increased to stabilize inputs. The duo added 71 runs for the fifth wicket, with Ervine showing calm composure and Raza providing aggressive counterplay. Raza, playing his first Test since 2021, reached his half-century with an elegant drive through the covers, while Ervine also brought up his fifty just before tea.
Despite suffering a back injury, Sean Williams joined the fray and contributed significantly with 49 runs. His determination was evident as he attacked the bowlers with confidence, despite battling discomfort. Together, they powered Zimbabwe to a total of 243, establishing a significant first innings lead of 86 runs.
Shaky start for Afghanistan in the second innings
With a modest target set by Zimbabwe, Afghanistan’s second innings began under pressure. Blessing of Muzarabani he struck early 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 i Rahmat Shah they tried to rebuild their innings but faced relentless pressure from the Zimbabwean bowlers. Raza made a significant impact by dismissing Shahidi just before stumps, leaving Afghanistan reeling at 46 for 3.
The day ended 40 runs behind Afghanistan, but with seven wickets still in hand. The pitch continued to be a challenge for batting, and both teams had chances to take control. Zimbabwe’s bowlers were disciplined and effective, while Afghanistan needed to regroup and form partnerships to set a competitive target.
Soques, day 2
Zimbabwe picked up three wickets!
Afghanistan end on 46/3, behind by 40 runs#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝https://t.co/HdHfDCXyud pic.twitter.com/Q1BW9u2Irt
— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 3, 2025
