Zimbabwe set a new Test record with a total of 586 runs, led by Sean Williams’ 154, as they faced Afghanistan, who were struggling at 95 for two at the end of the second day. This match marks a significant rivalry as both teams seek their first Test victory in years.
On Friday, Zimbabwe and their seasoned batter, Sean Williams, achieved significant milestones in Test cricket during their encounter against Afghanistan in Bulawayo. After the second day of the first Test, Afghanistan finished trailing by 491 runs. Zimbabwe, starting at 363 for four, concluded their innings at a record total of 586, surpassing their previous highest of 563 for nine against the West Indies 23 years ago. Afghanistan commenced their reply with 95 for two off 30 overs, yet play ceased due to unfavorable lighting conditions.
Sean Williams, who had previously scored 145 runs on the first day, added nine before being caught off a bouncer bowled by Naveed Zadran. His total of 154 not only eclipsed his former high score of 151 not out against Afghanistan in 2019 but also marked his fourth century in six Tests. Williams demonstrated his prowess with the bat, striking three sixes and ten fours from 174 balls during a partnership of 266 minutes.
Williams shared a notable 163-run partnership for the fifth wicket with captain Craig Ervine, who also made a significant contribution with a score of 104. Additionally, Brian Bennett emerged as another centurion for Zimbabwe, finishing with an unbeaten 110 from a brisk innings that included four sixes and five fours. The bowling effort for Afghanistan was led by teenage spinner Allah Ghazanfar, who, despite claiming three wickets, conceded a substantial 127 runs.
Afghanistan’s innings encountered difficulties from the outset, with Test debutant Sediqullah Atal dismissed for just three runs in the second over by a delivery from Trevor Gwandu. Another opener, Abdul Malik, scored 23 runs before Rahmat Shah managed to score an unbeaten 49. The current match marks a significant pursuit for both teams as they aim for their first Test victory since facing each other three years prior.
The match between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan represents a crucial moment in both teams’ cricketing careers, specifically in the realm of Test matches. The significance of records being set underscores the competitive nature of the game, particularly for Zimbabwe, who achieved their highest Test innings total to date against a team pursuing crucial wins as well. This encounter adds to the growing history and rivalry in Test cricket, emphasizing both teams’ development and aspirations within the format.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s impressive performance, highlighted by Sean Williams’ record-breaking innings and the team’s overall remarkable total of 586 runs, emphasizes their dominance on day two of the Test match against Afghanistan. Both teams appear eager to secure a much-needed victory, with Afghanistan struggling at the start of their innings. The match serves as an important chapter in the continuing narratives of both teams, as they strive for success in the Test format.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
