Zimbabwe and Afghanistan faced off 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 showcasing their skills on a challenging pitch that tested the temperament of the players.
Early struggles for Zimbabwe on Day 2
Resuming their innings at 6 for no loss after bowling Afghanistan out for 157, Zimbabwe’s top order encountered immediate difficulties. Joylord Gumbie was the first to fall, edging a delivery from Fareed Ahmad to Abdul Malik at second slip. This set the tone for a shaky start as Yamin Ahmadzai quickly followed up with another wicket, trapping Takudzwanashe Kaitano down the leg side. The hosts found themselves in dire straits at 16 for 2, and soon after, Ben Curran fell victim to an in-ducker from Fareed, leaving Zimbabwe reeling at 32 for 3.
With the pressure mounting, Dion Myers was promoted to No. 5 but could not withstand the onslaught. He attempted to counterattack but nicked a cut shot to slip, pushing Zimbabwe further into trouble at 41 for 4. At this point, Afghanistan seemed poised to take control of the match.
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Resilience on display by Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza
Just when it appeared that Zimbabwe might collapse, Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza stepped up to stabilize the innings. 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 an elegant drive through the covers, while Ervine also brought up his fifty shortly before tea.
Despite suffering from a back injury, Sean Williams joined the fray and contributed significantly with a brisk 49 runs. His determination was evident as he attacked the bowlers with confidence, even as he battled discomfort. Together, they propelled Zimbabwe to a total of 243 all out, establishing an important first-innings lead of 86 runs.
Afghanistan’s shaky start in second innings
With a modest target set by Zimbabwe, Afghanistan’s second innings began under pressure. Blessing Muzarabani struck early by dismissing Malik for just one run. The Afghan batting lineup continued to falter as Muzarabani claimed another wicket, leaving Afghanistan at a precarious 18 for 2.
Hashmatullah Shahidi and Rahmat Shah sought to rebuild their innings but faced relentless pressure from Zimbabwe’s bowlers. Raza made a significant impact by dismissing Shahidi just before 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 remained challenging for batting, and both teams had opportunities to seize control. Zimbabwe’s bowlers were disciplined and effective, while Afghanistan needed to regroup and build partnerships if they were to set a competitive target.
Stumps, Day 2
Zimbabwe picked up three wickets!
Afghanistan finish on 46/3, trailing by 40 runs#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝https://t.co/HdHfDCXyud pic.twitter.com/Q1BW9u2Irt
— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 3, 2025
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