Sikandar Raza's remarkable comeback: Zimbabwe stuns Afghanistan by bowling them out in the 1st innings

New Delhi: Zimbabwe dominated the second Test against Afghanistan in Bulawayo with a stellar performance from their bowlers. Opting to bowl first, Zimbabwe's bowlers exploited the conditions well, restricting Afghanistan to a meager total of 157 on the first day of play. The Afghan batsmen had a tough time at the crease, with no player managing to score more than 25 runs. Zimbabwe's bowlers were disciplined and kept the pressure on, resulting in regular dismissals. In their reply, Zimbabwe's openers successfully negotiated the challenging final three overs, finishing the day at 6/0, still trailing by 151 runs.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers led by Sikandar Raza dominate Afghanistan:
The Zimbabwean bowlers put on a clinical performance, showcasing exceptional discipline and skill. Richard Ngarava was nearly unplayable, finishing with figures of 1/18 from 12 overs, suffocating the Afghan batsmen with his accuracy. Blessing Muzarabani played a pivotal role, taking 2/56, which included the important wicket of Shahidullah. Sikandar Raza stood out with his off-spin, claiming 3/30 and dismantling Afghanistan’s middle order with clever variations and turn. Newman Nyamhuri contributed with 3/42, efficiently cleaning up the lower order. Together, the Zimbabwean bowlers capitalized on every mistake, limiting Afghanistan to just 157.

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The Comeback man on a mission!

Playing his first test in 4 years, Sikandar Raza picked up 3 crucial wickets as Zimbabwe bowled out Afghanistan for just 157 in the 1st innings! #ZIMvAFGonFanCode pic.twitter.com/blNGQH25tm

— FanCode (@FanCode) January 2, 2025

Afghanistan’s batting:
Afghanistan’s batting was plagued by an inability to form lasting partnerships. Openers Abdul Malik (17) and Riaz Hassan (12) got off to decent starts but couldn’t capitalize, while Rahmat Shah (19) and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (13) succumbed to soft dismissals. Afsar Zazai and Shahidullah attempted to steady the ship with brief contributions, but neither could withstand Zimbabwe’s relentless pressure. Rashid Khan’s aggressive 25 off 20 balls gave a late surge, but it wasn’t sufficient to salvage the innings. Frequent collapses and a lack of discipline highlighted Afghanistan’s woes, as they were bowled out for just 157 in 44.3 overs, leaving no room for a competitive total.

Zimbabwe’s steady start in reply:
Zimbabwe’s opening pair, Joylord Gumbie (4 not out) and Ben Curran (1 not out), remained calm as the light faded, successfully navigating the final three overs without losing a wicket. Despite facing a probing spell from Afghanistan’s bowlers, including Rashid, Fareed Ahmad, and Yamin Ahmadzai, they focused on defense and preserved their wickets. Though scoring was slow, their approach was cautious, aiming for a solid foundation. With seasoned players like Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza ready to follow, Zimbabwe is in a strong position as they prepare to build on this steady start. The hosts will look to dominate on Day 2 and extend their advantage.

Brilliant bowling display by Zimbabwe as they bowl out Afghanistan for 157 on Day 1 of the inaugural New Year’s Test.#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe https://t.co/HdHfDCXyud pic.twitter.com/JqxnzfFVKr

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 2, 2025