Hashmatullah Shahidi’s remarkable 246 runs and Brian Bennett’s five-wicket haul highlighted the drawn first Test between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. The match, affected by rain, ended with Afghanistan scoring 699 runs to Zimbabwe’s 586 and 142-4. Shahidi’s performance was historic, breaking Afghan records, while Bennett showcased his all-round skills. The contest emphasized the competitive spirit between the two nations.
In a gripping encounter in Bulawayo, Hashmatullah Shahidi and Brian Bennett emerged as the standout performers in the drawn first Test match between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe. Shahidi set a new Afghan record by scoring 246 runs during a lengthy innings, while the Zimbabwean spinner Bennett took five wickets to underpin his team’s efforts. Ultimately, the match concluded amid rain disruptions after Zimbabwe posted scores of 586 in their first innings and 142-4 in the second, trailing Afghanistan’s imposing total of 699 runs.
Shahidi’s phenomenal innings included 21 boundaries, as he battled through 474 balls over nearly 11 hours. His earlier partnerships with Rahmat Shah and Afsar Zazai were pivotal, enabling Afghanistan to take a significant first innings lead of 113 runs. The 30-year-old’s previous highest Test score had been 200 not out against Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi three years prior. Zazai also impressed, recording his maiden Test century with a score of 113 before falling to Bennett, whose extraordinary performance with the ball sealed Afghanistan’s late collapse where the final six wickets fell rapidly for just 20 runs.
In addition to his bowling exploits, Bennett also made a significant contribution with the bat, scoring 110 not out in Zimbabwe’s first innings. Making his mark in only his second Test match, Bennett’s dual capabilities elevated Zimbabwe’s performance, particularly in a contest that offered distinctive challenges due to the weather. The match’s final stages saw a tense batting display from Zimbabwe, who faced setbacks but managed to stabilize with contributions from veterans Sean Williams and Craig Ervine after a shaky start. The test match showcased the talents and determination from both teams, marking a notable chapter in their cricketing histories.
The drawn first Test match between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe is noteworthy due to the significant performances from both teams, particularly by Hashmatullah Shahidi and Brian Bennett. This match took place in Bulawayo and was highlighted by record-setting individual scores and unexpected turns of events influenced by weather conditions. Shahidi broke the Afghan record for individual Test runs, while Bennett emerged as a standout bowling talent, reflecting the competitive spirit of cricket between these nations. This match is significant in terms of showcasing developing cricketing talent and the evolving landscapes of both teams in the international arena.
The first Test match between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe concluded in a draw, marked by exceptional performances from Hashmatullah Shahidi and Brian Bennett. Shahidi’s record-breaking innings set a monumental standard for Afghan cricket, while Bennett’s remarkable bowling and batting proficiency illustrated the talent emerging from Zimbabwe. The match escaped a conclusive result largely due to rain interruptions, yet it reflected the tenacity and promise of both teams, leaving fans eager for future contests.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
