Bulawayo, Dec 30, (V7N) - Rain played a significant role on the fourth day of the first Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Queens Sports Club, restricting play to just 31 overs. With Afghanistan trailing Zimbabwe’s first-innings total of 586 by 71 runs, the game appears destined for a draw.

Day Highlights

Rahmat Shah's Marathon Ends: Rahmat Shah added only three runs to his overnight score before falling for 234, caught at gully off debutant Newman Nyamhuri. His 364-run stand with captain Hashmatullah Shahidi is now the eighth-highest third-wicket partnership in men's Test cricket.

Shahidi Stands Firm: Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi continued his resolute innings, finishing the day unbeaten on 179. He shared an unbroken 87-run stand for the fourth wicket with Afsar Zazai, who is just four runs shy of a maiden Test half-century.

Rain Interruption: Play was halted just after lunch due to ominous clouds and heavy rain. Despite a brief attempt to resume, persistent downpours ensured no further action, and stumps were called early.

Key Moments

Rahmat Shah's Departure: In the second over of the day, Nyamhuri lured Shah into driving a wide delivery, ending his marathon knock.

Shahidi’s Steadfast Approach: Shahidi played a measured innings, bringing stability after Rahmat’s dismissal.

Zazai's Confidence: Zazai showed intent, hitting a six and multiple boundaries, complementing Shahidi's anchoring role.

Bowling Efforts

Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Nyamhuri and Blessing Muzarabani, worked hard on a relatively flat track. Muzarabani's economy stood out (28-7-52-1), while Nyamhuri (23-2-82-1) impressed with his debut performance.

Score Summary

Zimbabwe 1st Innings: 586 all out (Sean Williams 154, Brian Bennett 113; AM Ghazanfar 3-127)
Afghanistan 1st Innings: 515/3 (Rahmat Shah 234, Hashmatullah Shahidi 179*; Newman Nyamhuri 1-82)

With one day remaining, and rain forecasted, both teams may look to the final day as an opportunity for batting practice rather than a decisive contest.

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