AFG vs ZIM: Hosts dominate as touring team dismissed for 127 in one-off Test

HARARE: In the Afghanistan versus Zimbabwe one-off Test here, the host team gained early control against the touring team after bowling out their batting line for just 127 runs on the opening day in Harare today (Sunday).

The Test day between the two sides ended earlier than expected as the umpires decided to call stumps due to a lighting issue at the Harare Sports Club. This decision by the umpires didn’t sit well with the Afghanistan XI.

Afghanistan’s innings was crushed by the host team, as the host team pacers and spinners contained them at every point. Sharifi emerged as the pick of the pacers, maintaining impressive accuracy, while the rest of the pacers truly struggled, especially in those moments when there was a need to apply strong pressure on the opponents. Nevertheless, several edges also flew past the slip cordon during the chaotic spell.

In the post-lunch session, the Afghan bowlers did manage to tighten their grip and create strong momentum, but the host opening batters showed greater resilience at the crease and played confidently against the bowlers, which built solid confidence within the side. The performance against the touring team clearly showed Afghanistan’s lack of experience as they failed to recover from early setbacks.

At stumps, Zimbabwe stood firmly in control, ending the day with momentum on their side and a strong grip on the match.