Delhi: The first Test match being played between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe in Sharjah seems to be heading towards a draw. The dominance of the batsmen was seen even on the fourth day. However, Afghanistan maintained some hold till the beginning of Zimbabwe's second innings, but Brendan Taylor and Brian Bennett batted brilliantly and took the team's lead to 154 runs. Now there is a possibility of all three results on the last day.
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Rahmat scored a brilliant century
Afghanistan started the day with a score of 402/7. Rahmat and Zia ur Rehman batted slowly but strongly and added 63 runs in the first session. Rahmat completed his century in the second over of the day itself. After this, he adopted an aggressive stance and hit fours and sixes continuously. After lunch, Rahmat also crossed the 150 run mark.
The 92-run partnership between the two batsmen was broken by Blessing Muzarabani by taking the wicket of Zia ur Rehman. Rahmat was out after scoring 173 runs. His innings was ended by Graeme Cremer through stumping. Afghanistan's innings ended with the fifth wicket of Newman Nyamhuri. The team achieved a slight lead of 10 runs over Zimbabwe.
Taylor and Bennett took charge of Zimbabwe's innings.
In the second innings, Zia Ur Rahman gave initial success to Afghanistan by dismissing Innocent Kaya LBW. After this Taylor batted brilliantly. After the early dismissal of Ben Curran, he along with Bennett took charge of the innings.
Taylor completed his half-century in 62 balls and scored 82 runs. However, he had to return to the pavilion due to an unfortunate run out. Rahmat gave life to Craig Irwin, which he took advantage of.
eyes fixed on the last day
Now Zimbabwe's lead has crossed 150 runs. By the end of the fourth day's play, Zimbabwe had reached a strong position. Now on the fifth day, Afghanistan will have to take wickets quickly, while Zimbabwe will try to strengthen their lead. A draw seems to be the most likely outcome of this match.
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Brief scores: Zimbabwe 504 and 164/3 (Brendan Taylor 82, Brian Bennett 49 not out) in reply to Afghanistan's 514 (Rahmat Shah 173, Rahmanullah Gurbaz 113; Newman Nyamhuri 5/82), a lead of 154 runs.
FAQ
Which team has the upper hand in Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe test?
After the fourth day's play, Zimbabwe has taken a strong position by taking a lead of 154 runs, but the result of the match can change on the last day.
How many runs did Brendan Taylor score against Afghanistan?
Brendan Taylor batted brilliantly in Zimbabwe's second innings and scored 82 runs and put the team in a strong position.