Rahmat Shah scored an astonishing 231 not out, breaking Afghanistan’s Test record during a 361-run partnership with Hashmatullah Shahidi, who made 141 not out. Afghanistan reached 425 for two on day three, trailing Zimbabwe’s 586 total by 161 runs in their ongoing Test match in Bulawayo.
In an exceptional display of batting, Rahmat Shah recorded a remarkable 231 not out, establishing a new Afghan Test record on the third day of the first Test against Zimbabwe. His partnership with Hashmatullah Shahidi, who secured an unbeaten 141, formed a formidable 361-run stand, propelling Afghanistan’s score to 425 for two by day’s end at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. Zimbabwe, having posted a record 586 after winning the toss, holds a 161-run lead entering the fourth day of the match. This was a notable achievement as Shah surpassed the previous best individual score for Afghanistan in Tests, which was set by Shahidi at 200 not out against the same opponents three years ago.
Rahmat Shah, who entered the crease following the dismissal of opener Sediqullah Atal in the second over, faced 416 deliveries and struck 23 boundaries alongside three sixes to achieve his historic double century. Previously, he had made an impressive 102 against Bangladesh in 2019, marking his entry into the century club for Afghan players in Test cricket. The innings included his milestone moments of reaching 100 and then 200 runs, both of which were celebrated amidst a lackluster performance from the Zimbabwean bowlers, who struggled significantly in the field.
Hashmatullah Shahidi also made significant contributions to the innings, connecting for 16 fours across his 276-ball stay at the crease. Zimbabwe’s attack, which included debutants, failed to maintain pressure in crucial moments, allowing the Afghan batsmen to thrive. Medium pacer Trevor Gwandu managed to take a wicket but also became one of the most costly bowlers, conceding 86 runs. Despite Zimbabwe’s historical performance and the context of seeking their first Test victory since defeating Afghanistan three years ago, they could not find a breakthrough against the Afghan batting resilience.
This match marks the beginning of a series that includes a second Test starting on January 2, following Afghanistan’s success in both the T20 and one-day international formats against Zimbabwe prior to this Test series.
This article discusses a pivotal moment in Afghan cricket history where Rahmat Shah’s remarkable performance against Zimbabwe highlights the development of the Afghan Test team since its inception in 2018. Cricket has become a symbol of national pride for Afghanistan, and such performances reflect the team’s growth and potential on the international stage. The context of the match, being part of a broader series, also emphasizes the competitive nature of cricket between these two nations.
In summary, Rahmat Shah’s record-setting innings alongside Hashmatullah Shahidi’s solid performance not only demonstrates Afghanistan’s rising status in Test cricket but also sets the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the match against Zimbabwe. As Afghanistan continues to build on its successes in shorter formats, this Test series serves as a crucial opportunity to establish their prowess in the longer format of the game.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
