January 6, 2025: Rashid Khan produced a spell of magic with the ball to guide Afghanistan to a 72-run victory over Zimbabwe in the second Test at Queens Sports Club on Monday, sealing the two-match series 1-0 in Afghanistan’s favor.
In a thrilling finish, Zimbabwe, chasing a target of 277 runs, were bowled out for 205. Craig Ervine, the Zimbabwean skipper, was the highest scorer for his side, making 53 runs, which included four boundaries and a six. However, it was Rashid Khan’s brilliance that ensured Afghanistan’s victory.
The key contributors for Zimbabwe in their chase were Sikandar Raza (38 runs from 83 balls), Ben Curran (38 runs from 53 balls), Takudzwanshe Kaitano (21 runs in 56 balls), Sean Williams (16 runs off 25 balls), and Joylord Gumbie (15 runs from 45 balls). Despite their efforts, Zimbabwe could not cross the finishing line.
For Afghanistan, Rashid Khan was the standout bowler, taking 7 wickets for 66 runs in 27.3 overs. His magical performance was pivotal in breaking Zimbabwe’s resistance. Left-arm spinner Zia-Ur-Rehman also contributed with 2 wickets for 44 runs in his 15 overs.
Earlier in the match, Afghanistan posted a formidable total of 363 in their second innings. The top scorers for Afghanistan were Rahmat Shah, who made a superb 139 runs off 275 balls, and Ismat Alam, who contributed with an equally important 101 runs from 181 balls.
For Zimbabwe, the standout performer with the ball was Blessing Muzarabani, who took 6 wickets for 95 runs in 29 overs. Richard Ngarava claimed three wickets, while Sikandar Raza picked up one.
Rashid Khan was named Player of the Match, while Rahmat Shah earned the Player of the Series award for his outstanding batting performances, which included a brilliant double hundred in the first Test.
This victory marks a historic series win for Afghanistan in Zimbabwe, and Rashid Khan’s performance will be remembered as the turning point in securing the series victory.
