In a historic Test match in Bulawayo, Afghanistan’s Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi have set a new record for the country’s highest Test partnership, scoring 361 runs together. Their scores of 231 and 141 not out helped Afghanistan reach 2/425 at the end of Day 3, following Zimbabwe’s record of 586 runs. The match is heading towards a likely draw as batting remains dominant.
In Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, records shattered overnight as the Afghan batting duo of Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi established a remarkable partnership, setting a new benchmark for Afghanistan in Test cricket. Following Zimbabwe’s record score of 586, Afghanistan showcased their prowess, concluding Day 3 at 2/425. Shah remains unbeaten at 231 while Shahidi stands at 141. Their partnership of 361 runs marks only the second instance of a 150-plus run tandem for Afghanistan and secures a spot among the top 10 for highest third-wicket pair scores in Test history.
During the match, Zimbabwe’s Sean Williams notched his fifth Test century with 154 runs, while skipper Craig Irvine contributed 104 runs and Brian Bennett achieved a commendable 110 not out. As the Test progresses, the pitch at Queens Sports Club has proven favorable for scoring, leaving the possibility of a drawn match intact. With a historical backdrop to this encounter, Afghanistan seeks to capitalize on their advantageous position in the Test Series, following earlier victories in T20 and ODI formats against Zimbabwe.
This cricket match highlights the increasing competitiveness of Afghanistan in international cricket, particularly in the Test format. Prior to this match, Afghanistan had already triumphed over Zimbabwe in the T20 and ODI series, showcasing their improving skills on the international stage. Records such as those set by Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi not only reflect individual achievements but also symbolize the growth and potential of Afghan cricket. The match is notable for limited wicket-taking opportunities, emphasizing the difficulty faced by bowlers on a flat pitch.
The remarkable performance of Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi on Day 3 of the Test match underscores Afghanistan’s emergence in the cricketing arena. Their historic partnership, alongside Zimbabwe’s impressive team innings, sets the stage for an exciting continuation of the match. With records at stake and strings of partnerships under review, Day 4 promises to be a captivating chapter in this Test encounter.
Original Source: www.foxsports.com.au
