Zimbabwe Remain in Control Despite Rahmat Shah Brilliant Century

Zimbabwe are in a commanding position against Afghanistan at the end of the fourth day of the first Test at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. At stumps, Zimbabwe had reached 164 for 3 in their second innings, taking their overall lead to 154 runs with one day remaining, putting them firmly in control of the match.

Earlier, Afghanistan resumed the fourth day’s play at 402 for 7, still trailing Zimbabwe’s first-innings total by 102 runs. Afghanistan captain Rahmat Shah, who was unbeaten on 94 overnight, went on to complete his fifth Test century off 205 balls.

Rahmat stitched together a valuable 92-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Zia Ur Rahman Akbar, guiding Afghanistan to 487. He eventually departed after scoring a magnificent 173 off 347 deliveries, being stumped by Tafadzwa Tsiga off the bowling of Graeme Cremer. His impressive knock featured 14 boundaries and three sixes. Afghanistan were eventually bowled out for 514 in 169.4 overs, securing a narrow but crucial 10-run first-innings lead over Zimbabwe.

Apart from Rahmat Shah, Afghanistan also had centuries from opener Sediqullah Atal (105) and debutant Rahmanullah Zadran (113) in their first innings. The duo put together a massive 206-run partnership for the second wicket, rescuing their side from an early collapse. For Zimbabwe, left-arm pacer Newman Nyamhuri was the standout bowler, claiming five wickets for 64 runs.