ZIM vs AFG: Blessing Muzarabani and Craig Ervine fuel Zimbabwe lead on Day 2 of second Test

Zimbabwe and Afghanistan faced a thrilling second day of the second Test in Bulawayo where the balance of power shifted frequently, leaving Zimbabwe with a slender lead of 40 runs at stumps. The day was characterized by fluctuating fortunes, with both teams showing their mettle on a demanding pitch that tested the players’ temperaments.

Early matches for Zimbabwe on Day 2

Resuming their innings at 6 for no loss after bowling Afghanistan out for 157, Zimbabwe’s top order faced immediate difficulties. Joylord Gaby was the first to fall, proceeding to a delivery from Fareed Ahmad to Abdul Malik on the second slide. This set the tone for a shaky start as Yamin Ahmadzai another wicket quickly followed, trapping We wish you good health down the side of the leg. The hosts found themselves in dire straits at 16-2, and soon after, Ben Curran he fell victim to a pontiff from Fareed, leaving Zimbabwe reeling at 32 for 3.

By placing under pressure, Dion Myers was promoted to No. 5 but could not withstand the attack. He tried to fight back but got a cut shot to slip, plunging Zimbabwe into further trouble at 41 for 4. At this point, Afghanistan looked set to take control of the match.

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Resilience demonstrated by Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza

Just when it looked like Zimbabwe might collapse, Craig Erwin and Sikandar Raza stepped up to steady the innings. The duo added 71 runs for the fifth wicket, with Ervine displaying calm composure and Raza providing aggressive resistance. Raza, playing his first Test since 2021, reached his half-century with a classy drive through the covers, while Ervine also brought up his fifty just before tea.

Despite the back injury, Sean Williams came into the fray and contributed significantly with a quick 49 runs. His determination was evident as he attacked the bowlers with aplomb, even while struggling with discomfort. Together, they pushed Zimbabwe to a total of 243, building a substantial first innings lead of 86 runs.

Afghanistan’s shaky start to the second innings

With a modest target set by Zimbabwe, Afghanistan’s second innings began under pressure. Blessing Muzarabani he struck early dismissing Malik for a single run. Afghanistan’s batting line-up continued to falter as Muzarabani claimed another wicket, leaving Afghanistan at a precarious 18 for 2.

Hashmatullah Shahidi and Rahmat Shah they tried to rebuild their innings but faced relentless pressure from the Zimbabwean bowlers. Raza made a major impact by dismissing Shahidi just before stumps, leaving Afghanistan reeling at 46 for 3.

The day ended with Afghanistan trailing by 40 runs but with seven wickets still in hand. The pitch remained difficult to hit, and both teams had chances to take control. Zimbabwe’s bowlers were disciplined and effective, while Afghanistan needed to regroup and build partnerships if they were to set a competitive target.

Stumps, Day 2

Zimbabwe took three wickets!

Afghanistan finish at 46/3, trailing by 40 runs#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝https://t.co/HdHfDCXyud pic.twitter.com/Q1BW9u2Irt

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 3, 2025

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