Zimbabwe secured a significant Test victory after 24 years by defeating Afghanistan in the Only Test at Harare Sports Club. This marked Zimbabwe’s third innings win in Tests and their first since triumphing over Bangladesh in Bulawayo in 2001. The victory was attributed to a strong batting performance and effective bowling, particularly on Day 3 when Afghanistan suffered a dramatic collapse.
In their sole innings, the hosts set a solid foundation with a commanding total of 359, led by Ben Curran’s composed 121 runs, which included 15 boundaries off 256 deliveries. Curran received valuable contributions from Sikandar Raza (65) and Nick Welch (49), while Brendan Taylor (32) and Brad Evans (35)* added crucial runs lower down the order, setting up a daunting task for Afghanistan.
Struggling throughout, Afghanistan were bowled out for 127 in their first innings, with only Rahmanullah Gurbaz (37) and Abdul Malik (30) offering resistance. Zimbabwe’s bowlers, spearheaded by Brad Evans (5/22) and Blessing Muzarabani (3/47), exploited Afghanistan’s frail batting lineup effectively.
On the third day, Zimbabwe’s bowlers continued their dominance. Although Afghanistan’s second innings began promisingly with Ibrahim Zadran (42) looking comfortable, Richard Ngarava’s performance led to a swift collapse. Ngarava’s match-winning figures of 5/37 saw Afghanistan crumble from 43/2 to 159 all out.
On Day 3 alone, Afghanistan lost nine wickets for 116 runs, with brief resistance from Bahir Shah (32) and Afsar Zazai (18). Muzarabani (3/48) and Tanaka Chivanga (2/40) supported Ngarava effectively, exposing and pressuring Afghanistan’s batting lineup.
Zimbabwe’s victory showcased their renewed strength in Test cricket, with Captain Craig Ervine’s calm leadership and a blend of experience and youth contributing to a dominant performance throughout the match.
Brief Scores:
– Afghanistan 1st Innings: 127 all out in 32.3 overs. Top scorers: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (37), Abdul Malik (30); Bowlers: Brad Evans (5/22), Blessing Muzarabani (3/47)
– Zimbabwe 1st Innings: 359 all out in 103 overs. Top scorers: Ben Curran (121), Sikandar Raza (65); Bowlers: Ziaur Rahman (7/97), Ismat Alam (2/51)
– Afghanistan 2nd Innings: 159 all out in 43 overs. Top scorers: Ibrahim Zadran (42), Bahir Shah (32); Bowlers: Richard Ngarava (5/37), Blessing Muzarabani (3/48)
– Result: Zimbabwe won by an innings and 73 runs
– Player of the Match: Ben Curran (ZIM) – 121 runs
This victory marked a significant moment for Zimbabwe in Test cricket, showcasing their prowess and determination on the field.