Afghanistan And Zimbabwe The ongoing first Test at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium between is heading towards a high-scoring draw, with the visitors firmly in control on the final day. Zimbabwe have batted with patience and determination in their second innings, building a significant lead and making it difficult for Afghanistan to force a result.
However, amidst Zimbabwe's impressive batting performance, Afghanistan's fast bowlers Saleem Safi on day 5 Brian Bennett Presented a moment of brilliance by dismissing D.C. with a brilliant ball. This wicket emerged as one of the highlights of the final day's proceedings, showcasing Safi's ability to trouble batsmen even in good conditions.
Saleem Safi bowled a brilliant ball to dismiss Brian Bennett.
This wicket was the result of excellent bowling from Safi, who used the surface expertly to deceive Bennett. The Afghanistan fast bowler bowled a ball that slipped with extra pace, leaving the Zimbabwe batsman little time to adjust. Bennett attempted to tuck the ball but was late in bringing his bat down. He completely missed the ball, which passed between his bat and pad and hit the top of middle and leg stump.
Safi immediately spread his hands in celebration as he ran in after achieving a vital breakthrough for Afghanistan. It was a beautifully executed ball that gave Bennett no real opportunity once he connected with his shot.
Here is the video:
Saleem produces a Jaffa to dismiss the Chevrons’ captain! 👏🎯#AfghanAtalan | #AFGvZIM | #GloriousNationVictoriousTeam pic.twitter.com/3LUb2bkx7P
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) November 9, 2026
Despite Safi's success, Zimbabwe strengthened its position
Meanwhile, this wicket did not play much of a role in changing the overall picture of the contest as Zimbabwe dominated the proceedings on the final day. The guests resumed their second innings at 164/3 and successfully disposed of the morning and afternoon sessions, denying Afghanistan any opportunity to exert sustained pressure. By the 80 over mark, Zimbabwe reached 299/4, increasing their overall lead to 289 runs.
Craig Ervine He has been a key performer with the bat, showing excellent composure and staying at the crease for long periods. He led the batting effort brilliantly and scored a well-deserved century.
Ervine the debutante Antum Naqvi Valuable support also came from , who made the most of his opportunity and scored his first half-century in Test cricket. His contribution further strengthens Zimbabwe's position and helps the visitors maintain control of the game.
With Zimbabwe leading by 289 runs and six wickets still in hand, Afghanistan face a huge challenge to turn the contest around. The visitors have prioritized batting time and ensured Afghanistan have little opportunity to make a comeback. Unless the hosts do something extraordinary, the result of the first Test looks headed towards a draw.
Nevertheless, Saleem Safi's excellent ball to dismiss Bennett provided Afghanistan with a moment of celebration in a challenging situation on the final day.
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