Sean Williams scored an unbeaten 145, propelling Zimbabwe to 363 for four against Afghanistan on day one of their first Test in Bulawayo. The innings marks Williams’ fifth Test century, nearing his personal best from three years ago. Significant contributions also came from Ben Curran and Craig Ervine, while Afghanistan struggled with their bowling performance.
In a remarkable display of batting prowess, Sean Williams remained unbeaten on 145 as Zimbabwe amassed a total of 363 for four on the first day of their inaugural Test match against Afghanistan in Bulawayo. The seasoned middle-order batsman, aged 38, is now just seven runs away from surpassing his personal best of 151, which he achieved in a previous encounter with Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. Making his 16th Test appearance, Williams arrived at the crease following a promising 68 from debutant opener Ben Curran, propelling Zimbabwe to a solid 92-2 at Queens Sports Club.
Williams showcased his skill by forming significant partnerships, including a 78-run collaboration with Takudzwanashe Kaitano, who contributed 46 runs, and a crucial 143-run partnership with captain Craig Ervine, who is also not out at 56. This innings signals a revival for Zimbabwe’s batters after recent struggles in limited-overs formats. Williams hit three sixes and nine fours during his 161-ball innings, marking his fifth Test century. Ervine’s performance was similarly commendable, as he faced 94 deliveries, scoring six fours in an innings that is historically significant as the first Boxing Day Test held in Zimbabwe in nearly three decades.
Curran, the son of the late Zimbabwe coach Kevin Curran and brother to England internationals, made an impressive start to his Test career with a brisk 74-ball knock of 68, including 11 boundaries. The only disappointment for Zimbabwe came from opener Joylord Gumbie, who managed only nine runs before being dismissed. From the Afghan side, teenage off-spinner Allah Ghazanfar emerged as the most effective bowler, securing two wickets while Zimbabwe’s batters capitalized on a generally lackluster bowling performance, marred by poor line and length and subpar fielding.
As both teams strive for their first Test victory since facing each other in the UAE three years ago, the stage is set for a compelling contest as the match progresses.
Brief scores: Zimbabwe 363-4 in 85 overs (Sean Williams 145 not out, Ben Curran 68, Craig Ervine 56 not out, Takudzwanashe Kaitano 46; Allah Ghazanfar 2-83) v Afghanistan, Toss: Zimbabwe.
The context surrounding this Test match includes both teams’ attempts to secure a long-awaited victory. Zimbabwe’s performance in white-ball cricket had been underwhelming, contributing to heightened expectations in the longer format. Sean Williams, who debuted in 2013, has been a cornerstone of the Zimbabwean batting lineup, and his impressive innings reflects his experience and skill. This match marks the first Test played in Zimbabwe on Boxing Day in almost three decades, providing an additional layer of significance. Afghanistan, also in search of form, faces challenges in maintaining a consistent bowling attack.
In summary, Sean Williams’ outstanding unbeaten innings of 145 puts Zimbabwe in a commanding position against Afghanistan in their first Test, with significant contributions from debutant Ben Curran and captain Craig Ervine. Despite the challenges faced by the Afghan bowling unit, this match presents a crucial opportunity for both teams to secure a vital Test victory, striving to break an extended winless streak against one another. Ultimately, Williams’ performance not only showcases individual brilliance but also reignites hope for Zimbabwean cricket.
Original Source: www.france24.com
