Afghanistan clinched a hard-fought Test series victory against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, thanks to Rashid Khan’s brilliant match-winning performance. Rashid, who has been instrumental in Afghanistan’s Test successes, delivered career-best figures of 7 for 66 in the second innings, wrapping up the match just 15 balls into the fifth day. His match haul of 11 for 160 ensured a 72-run win for the visitors.
Zimbabwe began the final morning needing 73 runs with captain Craig Ervine their last hope. Afghanistan, requiring just two wickets, struck quickly. Rashid set the tone by forcing Richard Ngarava into a miscued slice, but the chance was dropped at silly point. However, Ngarava was run out moments later, falling short after a sharp throw from Shahidullah.
With last man Blessing Muzarabani at the crease, all eyes were on Ervine, who resumed on 53. Rashid delivered the final blow with a well-pitched delivery that turned in and struck Ervine in front, sealing the game and triggering jubilant celebrations.
Afghanistan’s victory was built on the resilience of their batting lineup. Trailing by 86 runs after the first innings, Rahmat Shah’s 139 and debutant Ismat Alam’s 101 in the second innings provided the foundation for a comeback. Rashid himself contributed crucial knocks of 25 and 23 in both innings.
This win gave Afghanistan a 1-0 triumph in the two-match series, following a high-scoring draw in the first Test. It capped a dominant performance across all formats of the tour, leaving Zimbabwe without a series win.
Updated on 7th January, 2025 by MyFortune11 Team.