Afghanistan Breaks Pakistan’s Test Record in Draw Against Zimbabwe

Afghanistan shattered Pakistan’s record for the fewest Test matches taken to score 600 runs during a drawn match against Zimbabwe, scoring 699 runs in their only innings. Individually, Hashmatullah Shahidi set a new Afghan record with 246 runs while both teams achieved their highest Test scores. The match concluded when Zimbabwe scored 586 in their first innings, solidifying significant milestones for both sides.

Afghanistan has broken a longstanding Test cricket record previously held by Pakistan during a recent match against Zimbabwe at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. In this high-scoring encounter, Afghanistan amassed a total of 699 runs in their only innings, highlighted by stellar performances from Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi, who each scored double centuries. This achievement has now positioned Afghanistan as the team that reached 600 runs in Test matches in the fewest outings, accomplishing this milestone in just 10 matches, surpassing Pakistan’s previous record of 19 matches, set in 1958 after their Test debut in 1952.

Additionally, Hashmatullah Shahidi’s score of 246 has been recorded as the highest ever by an Afghan player in Test cricket, reclaiming the record he had briefly lost to Rahmat Shah, who scored 234 runs. The match was historic not only for Afghanistan but also for Zimbabwe, who recorded their highest-ever Test score of 586 runs in their first innings, with significant contributions from Sean Williams, Craig Ervine, and Brian Bennett, each hitting centuries. The match ultimately concluded as a draw after Zimbabwe scored 142 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their second innings.

This match exemplifies remarkable achievements from both teams and marks the sixth instance in Test history where both sides have recorded their highest-ever scores in the same match, reflecting a match of extraordinary competitive spirit and skill.

The significance of this cricket match lies in Afghanistan’s exceptional progression within the Test format. Since achieving full Test status in 2017, Afghanistan’s journey in international cricket has been marked by rapid development. The previous record held by Pakistan for the fewest matches to score 600 runs in Test cricket symbolized a significant benchmark in the sport’s history. The comparison highlights Afghanistan’s swift ascent in Test cricket, as they surpassed a record that had stood for over 60 years, indicating a shift in competitive dynamics within the cricketing world. The individual performances that contributed to this record have further emphasized the talent emerging from the Afghan cricketing ranks.

In summary, Afghanistan’s recent Test match against Zimbabwe has established them as a formidable force in cricket, not only breaking Pakistan’s long-held record for the fewest matches to score 600 runs in Test cricket but also showcasing outstanding individual performances. The historical significance of this match for both teams signifies an exciting evolution in the landscape of international cricket. As Afghanistan continues to develop its cricketing prowess, their accomplishments in this match reflect an encouraging future for the team. Overall, the match not only highlighted key performances but also brought forward a new era where Afghanistan competes at the highest levels of the sport.

Original Source: www.indiatvnews.com