Rashid Khan scripted a comeback for Afghanistan during the Second Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. The visitors secured a thrilling 72-run victory and won the two-match series 1-0.
Rashid Khan Shines Again
Rashid Khan‘s magic with the ball was the decisive factor. He claimed career-best figures of 7 for 66 in Zimbabwe’s second innings. Overall, he took 11 wickets in the game while giving away 160 runs.
Starting the final day, Zimbabwe needed just 73 runs with captain Craig Ervine at the crease. Afghanistan, on the other hand, required two quick wickets. It didn’t take long for Rashid to strike.
Early Drama on Day Five
The drama began right from the first over. Rashid bowled to Zimbabwe’s No. 10, Richard Ngarava, and forced a mistimed slice. The ball popped up behind the fielder at silly point, but a miscommunication between Hashmatullah Shahidi and Fareed Ahmad led to a dropped catch. Rashid couldn’t hide his frustration, but his disappointment didn’t last long.
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Ngarava survived the remaining deliveries, allowing Ervine to take strike in the next over. Ervine, Zimbabwe’s last recognized batter, started cautiously but misjudged a run soon after. He drove Yamin Ahmadzai towards deep extra cover, but Ngarava was slow to respond. Shahidullah’s direct throw to wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai found Ngarava well short of his crease.
Rashid Ends Zimbabwe’s Hopes
With the last man, Blessing Muzarabani, at the crease, all eyes were on Ervine. Rashid didn’t waste time. He bowled two short balls before pitching one fuller that turned sharply. Ervine missed his sweep attempt, and the ball struck him on the pads. Umpire Ahsan Raza’s finger went up after a brief delay, confirming Ervine’s dismissal for 53.
There was no DRS available to review the decision, and Zimbabwe’s hopes of a historic chase were dashed. Afghanistan’s players erupted in celebration, knowing they had pulled off a memorable victory.
Rahmat and Alam Lead the Fightback
Afghanistan’s win was built on the back of a spirited second-inning comeback. Trailing by 86 runs after the first innings, Rahmat Shah and debutant Ismat Alam took charge. Rahmat scored a gritty 139, while Alam impressed with a composed 101. Their partnership turned the game on its head and gave Afghanistan a fighting chance.
Rashid also contributed crucial runs with the bat, scoring 25 and 23 in both innings. His all-round performance made the difference in a closely contested match.
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