ZIM vs AFG: Blessing Muzarabani and Craig Ervine extend Zimbabwe’s lead on day two of the second Test
Zimbabwe and Afghanistan faced in a thrilling second day of the second Test in Bulawayo, where the balance of power often shifted, leaving Zimbabwe with a slim lead of 40 runs at stumps. The day was marked by fluctuating fortunes, with both teams showing their skills on a demanding pitch that tested the players’ temperaments.
Early struggles for Zimbabwe on day two
Continuing their innings at 6 for no loss after bowling Afghanistan out for 157, Zimbabwe’s top order ran into immediate difficulties. Joylord Gumbie was the first to fall, ripping the delivery from Fareed Ahmad to Abdul Malik at the other skater. This set the tone for a shaky start as Yamin Ahmadzai another wicket quickly followed, a catch in the trap Takudzwanashe Kaitano down the leg. The hosts found themselves in a difficult situation at 16 for 2, and soon after Ben Curran he fell victim to an in-ducker from Fareed, leaving Zimbabwe at 32 for 3.
With pressure mounting, Dion Myers he was promoted to number 5, but could not withstand the attack. He tried to counter-attack but knocked and slipped, plunging Zimbabwe into further trouble at 41 for 4. At this point, Afghanistan looked set to take control of the game.
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The resilience shown by Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza
Just when it seemed that Zimbabwe might collapse, Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza stepped up to stabilize the changes. The duo added 71 runs for the fifth wicket, with Ervine showing composure and Raza providing an aggressive counterplay. Raza, playing his first Test since 2021, reached his half-century with a classy drive through the covers, while Ervine also brought up his fifty shortly before tea.
Despite a back injury, Sean Williams joined the fray and contributed significantly with a quick 49 runs. His determination was evident as he confidently attacked pitchers, even as he battled discomfort. Together they powered Zimbabwe to a total of 243, establishing an important first innings lead of 86 runs.
Uncertain start for Afghanistan in the second innings
With a modest target set by Zimbabwe, Afghanistan started the second innings under pressure. Blessings to Muzarabani struck early by dismissing Malik for just one run. Afghanistan’s 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 looked 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 at 46 for 3.
The day ended with Afghanistan trailing by 40 runs but with seven wickets still in hand. The pitch continued to be challenging to bat on and both teams had opportunities to take control. Zimbabwe’s bowlers were disciplined and efficient, while Afghanistan needed to regroup and build partnerships if they were to set a competitive target.
Stumps, 2nd day
Zimbabwe won by three wickets!
Afghanistan end on 46/3, trailing by 40 runs#WINvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝https://t.co/HdHfDCXyud pic.twitter.com/Q1BW9u2Irt
— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 3, 2025
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