Rashid Khan – The Hero of Afghan Cricket
It had to be Rashid Khan. Time and again, the Afghan spinner has proven himself to be the backbone of his team’s success in Test cricket. After dominating in Dehradun, Chattogram, and Abu Dhabi, Rashid once again showcased his brilliance in Bulawayo. With a match haul of 11 for 160, including a career-best 7 for 66 in the second innings, Rashid crushed Zimbabwe’s hopes of a thrilling fifth-day finish.
The final morning saw Afghanistan needing two wickets and Zimbabwe 73 runs away from victory. All eyes were on Zimbabwe’s captain Craig Ervine, but the Afghan team, led by Rashid’s brilliance, wrapped things up in dramatic fashion within 15 deliveries.
The Final Morning: A Dramatic Finish
The fifth day began with Rashid Khan bowling to Zimbabwe’s No. 10, Richard Ngarava. Afghanistan got the start they wanted—or almost. Four balls into the day, Ngarava mistimed a slice off Rashid, sending the ball high into the air behind silly point. A mix-up between Hashmatullah Shahidi and Fareed Ahmad saw the catch go down, leaving Rashid visibly frustrated.
However, Ngarava’s reprieve was short-lived. Ervine, starting the day on 53, was determined to keep the strike. He turned down two singles before attempting a third off Yamin Ahmadzai’s delivery. Shahidullah, fielding at deep extra cover, fired a flat throw to wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai, who whipped off the bails. Ngarava was caught miles short, leaving Zimbabwe with their last man, Blessing Muzarabani, at the crease.
Muzarabani defended stoically, allowing Ervine to take strike for Rashid’s next over. The Afghan spinner delivered the final blow with a fuller delivery that turned in sharply, trapping Ervine in front as he attempted a sweep. Umpire Ahsan Raza took his time before raising his finger, but without DRS, Ervine had no recourse. Rashid’s celebration was one of unrestrained joy, as Afghanistan secured a famous victory.
The Comeback: A Team Effort
Afghanistan’s victory in Bulawayo was not just about Rashid’s heroics; it was a testament to their resilience. Starting their second innings 86 runs behind, Afghanistan found saviors in Rahmat Shah and debutant Ismat Alam. Both players scored crucial centuries, laying the foundation for a competitive total.
Even Rashid contributed vital runs with scores of 25 and 23 in both innings, ensuring his all-round impact on the game. It was a team effort that saw Afghanistan not only erase the deficit but set Zimbabwe a challenging target.
Rashid Khan’s Masterclass
Rashid’s bowling was the cornerstone of Afghanistan’s win. His career-best 7 for 66 in the second innings dismantled Zimbabwe’s batting lineup. Rashid’s ability to turn the ball sharply, vary his pace, and outthink batters proved too much for Zimbabwe to handle.
The final morning’s drama, including the dropped catch and subsequent dismissals, showcased Rashid’s unrelenting determination. His celebration after Ervine’s wicket encapsulated the pride of a player who has consistently carried his team to new heights.
The Series in Perspective
Afghanistan’s 1-0 series win was a significant milestone, especially after a high-scoring draw in the first Test. The victory in Bulawayo marked not just a triumph in the longest format but a comprehensive series win across all three formats.
For Zimbabwe, the series highlighted both promise and missed opportunities. Craig Ervine’s efforts as captain and batter were commendable, but the team’s inability to capitalize on key moments proved costly.
Afghanistan’s Growing Legacy
Afghanistan’s victory in Bulawayo was a reminder of how far the team has come in Test cricket. Rashid Khan continues to be the talismanic figure, but the contributions of players like Rahmat Shah and Ismat Alam reflect the team’s growing depth and resilience.
This series win solidifies Afghanistan’s position as a rising force in international cricket. For Rashid, it’s another chapter in a storied career, and for Afghanistan, it’s a step closer to becoming a formidable Test side.