Zimbabwe Dominates Day Two with Record-Breaking Total Against Afghanistan
Zimbabwe 586 (Bennett 110*, Ervine 104, Williams 154, Ghazanfar 3-127)
Afghanistan 95-2 (Rahmat 49*) trail by 491 runs
The second day of the Boxing Day Test in Bulawayo belonged entirely to Zimbabwe as they created history by posting their highest-ever Test score of 586 against Afghanistan. The day was marked by exceptional batting performances, including maiden Test centuries from Brian Bennett and Craig Ervine, alongside a career-best 154 from Sean Williams.
Zimbabwe’s Record-Breaking Innings
Williams Sets the Tone
Resuming on 145 overnight, Sean Williams reached 150 with a cut through point but departed early in the day for 154, mistiming a pull off Naveen Zadran to deep midwicket.
Bennett’s Stunning Century
Brian Bennett, playing only his second Test, showcased his potential with a remarkable unbeaten 110 off 134 balls, striking 15 boundaries and two sixes. His innings included partnerships of:
- 82 runs with Craig Ervine for the sixth wicket.
- 47 runs with Dane Paterson for the last wicket.
Bennett reached his century in dramatic fashion, pulling a short ball to the boundary only for the deep fielder to step on the rope, triggering rapturous celebrations.
Ervine’s Masterclass
Skipper Craig Ervine notched up his third Test century, scoring 104, with elegant flicks and precise cuts square of the wicket. His calm leadership anchored the middle order.
Contributions from the Tail
Teen debutant Newman Nyamhuri hit a brisk 26, including a six to bring up Zimbabwe’s 500, ending the team’s 21-year wait for a 500+ total in Tests. Blessing Muzarabani chipped in with 19 as Zimbabwe piled on the runs.
Afghanistan’s Response: An Uphill Battle
Chasing Zimbabwe’s massive total, Afghanistan faced early trouble:
- Sediqullah Atal (1), debuting alongside Nyamhuri, was dismissed by Trevor Gwandu in just the second over. Gwandu later left the field injured.
- Abdul Malik (19) fell to Muzarabani, lobbing a short ball to fine leg.
Rahmat Shah Steadies the Ship
Experienced No. 3 Rahmat Shah looked solid, reaching 49 not out with fluent strokes through the off-side. He was supported briefly by captain *Hashmatullah Shahidi (9)**, but Afghanistan ended the day on 95-2, still trailing by 491 runs.
Key Moments and Insights
- Zimbabwe’s Historic Feat: Their total of 586 surpasses their previous highest of 563-9 against the West Indies in 2001.
- Bennett’s Star Turn: His maiden Test century, marked by composure and aggression, made him the standout player of the day.
- Afghanistan’s Struggles: Poor fielding, predictable bowling, and loose dismissals have left them facing an uphill battle.
What’s Next?
With a daunting deficit of 491 runs, Afghanistan’s batters will need to dig deep on Day Three to avoid a follow-on and salvage the match. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s bowlers will aim to capitalize on the momentum and push for an innings victory in this landmark Test.
