On a fast-paced second day in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and Afghanistan battled for the advantage, with Zimbabwe holding a narrow lead.
Zimbabwe resumed on 6 for 0 after dismissing Afghanistan for 157 on day one. Early trouble struck as Zimbabwe’s top order collapsed, but half-centuries from Craig Ervine (75), Sikandar Raza (61), and an injured Sean Williams (49) helped Zimbabwe gain an 86-run lead, despite the challenging pitch conditions.
Afghanistan fought back, removing three Zimbabwean wickets. Blessing Muzarabani claimed two, leaving Afghanistan 40 runs behind at stumps, with seven wickets still in hand.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers dominated early, with Gumbie falling to Fareed Ahmad and Takudzwanashe Kaitano going down cheaply. Ben Curran was trapped by Fareed, while Dion Myers, promoted in Williams’ absence due to a back injury, failed to hold his ground. Raza’s luck helped him reach fifty before he fell to Rashid Khan.
Zimbabwe’s fightback was built on partnerships, with Raza and Ervine adding 71 runs for the fourth wicket. However, Williams’ back issues affected his batting, and despite hitting a few boundaries, he was dismissed for 49 by Rashid.
Zimbabwe’s lead grew after tea, with Ervine hitting Rashid for two consecutive sixes. However, he holed out for 75. Zimbabwe ended with an 86-run lead, scoring 243 all out.
Afghanistan’s second innings began poorly. Muzarabani took two early wickets, leaving Afghanistan at 18 for 2. Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi briefly steadied the ship, but Raza’s offbreak dismissed Shahidi, leaving Afghanistan trailing by 40 runs, with seven wickets in hand going into day three.
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