Bulawayo, Zimbabwe — Rahmat Shah delivered a stunning performance as he scored 231 not out, setting the record for Afghanistan’s highest-ever Test score during the first Test against Zimbabwe at the Queens Sports Club.
On Saturday, day three of the match, Afghanistan made remarkable strides, finishing the day at 425 runs without losing any wickets, having started the day at 95 for 2. This incredible feat was marked by an outstanding partnership of 361 runs between Shah and the captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, who contributed significantly with his own unbeaten 141. Together, they exhibited masterful batting, defying the Zimbabwean bowlers who could not take any wickets throughout the lengthy 95 overs.
After resuming their innings on Saturday, the Afghan side looked determined to capitalize on the solid start they had achieved previously. Zimbabwe had set the stage with their formidable total of 586 runs, built from several remarkable individual performances, leaving Afghanistan with the mammoth task of overcoming the 395-run deficit.
Rahmat’s record-breaking innings not only surpassed Shahidi’s previous Afghanistan Test record of 200 not out, achieved against Zimbabwe back in 2021, but it also solidified him as the backbone of Afghanistan’s batting lineup. Facing 416 balls and hitting 23 fours and three sixes, he skillfully amassed runs, showcasing concentration and technical prowess.
This match has marked Afghanistan’s evolution as they pushed forward against the challenges posed by their host. While Rahmat anchored the innings, Shahidi’s support was equally commendable, managing to construct his second Test century with relative ease, reinforcing his reputation as captain.
By the close of play on Day 3, the visitors had whittled down the deficit from 395 runs to just 161 runs, indicating increasing confidence as they headed toward the final days of the game. The unanswered question was whether they could maintain momentum and apply pressure on Zimbabwe, who now encountered the challenge of regrouping after laborious hours on the field.
Afghanistan’s resilience was not just about individual records but also about teamwork. Their partnership marked Afghanistan’s first complete day of batting without losing any wickets — a significant milestone for the team, who made their Test debut only six years ago against India.
Zimbabwe’s bowling attack, composed of players who struggled to find their rhythm on the flattest of pitches, was guilty of inconsistency, which allowed Afghanistan to steadily chip away at the scoreboard. Players like Trevor Gwandu and Blessing Muzarabani were unable to breakthrough, needing to capitalize on the opportunities presented by dropped catches and wayward deliveries.
The match continues to develop as Afghanistan aims to create even more history. Their batting prowess puts them on the cusp of multiple records, and there remains considerable anticipation surrounding how they will conclude Day 4. With every run counting, the Afghan side appears poised to capitalize on any weaknesses displayed by Zimbabwe’s bowlers.
For Zimbabwe, the struggle is evident. Having set such high standards by posting their top-ever Test score, the realization of securing their first Test win since beating Afghanistan three years ago has grown increasingly distant. They must quickly find their form if they wish to counteract the positive energy radiated by the Afghan players.
Overall, this Test match has offered thrilling entertainment and has already created several records. The theater of the game fascinates cricket fans, who now witness the potential transformation of teams like Afghanistan stepping up to the plate amid international competition.
Afghanistan’s historic clash with Zimbabwe, following successful outings in limited-overs formats, adds to the narrative of their rising capabilities. Whatever the outcome, the results here will leave lasting impacts on the perceptions of these teams as they navigate the world of Test cricket.