Rashid Khan wrote a review for Afghanistan during the Second Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. The visitors secured a thrilling 72-run victory and won the two-match series 1-0.
Rashid Khan shines again
Rashid KhanBall magic was the deciding factor. He took career-best figures of 7 for 66 in Zimbabwe's second innings. Overall, he took 11 wickets in the game while conceding 160 runs.
Starting the last day, ZIMBABWE only 73 runs were needed with captain Craig Ervine at the crease. Afghanistan, on the other hand, claimed two quick wickets. It wasn't long before Rashid struck.
Early drama on day five
The drama started from the very first kick off. Rashid collided with Zimbabwe's number 10, Richard Ngarava, and forced a miscue. The ball went behind the player in a thick spot, but a miscommunication between them Hashmatullah Shahidi and Fareed Ahmad led to a dropped catch. Rashid could not hide his disappointment, but his disappointment did not last long.
The carriage survived the remaining deliveries, allowing Ervina to strike the next hour. Ervine, Zimbabwe's last known bowler, started cautiously but misjudged a run soon after. He drove Yamin Ahmadzai to deep extra cover but Ngarava was slow to respond. Shahidullah's direct shot at keeper Afsar Zazai found Ngarawa well away from his crease.
Rashid ends Zimbabwe's hopes
With the last man, Bekimi Muzarabani, at the crease, all eyes were on Ervin. Rashid wasted no time. He bowled two short balls before bowling a fuller one that bounced hard. Ervin missed his sweep attempt and the ball hit him into the boards. Umpire Ahsan Raza's finger was raised after a brief delay, confirming Ervine's dismissal for 53.
There was no DRS available to review the decision and Zimbabwe's hopes of a historic chase were dashed. Afghanistan's players erupted in celebration, knowing they had achieved an unforgettable victory.
Rahmat and Alam lead the fight back
Afghanistan's win was built on the back of a spirited comeback in the second match. Trailing by 86 runs after the first innings, Rahmat Shah and debutant Ismat Alam took charge. Rahmat scored 139 while Alam impressed with 101. Their partnership turned the game on its head and gave Afghanistan a fighting chance.
Rashid also contributed crucial runs with the bat, scoring 25 and 23 in both innings. His all-round performance made the difference in a closely contested match.
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