Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi create history with their unbeaten partnership and become the first pair to remain unbeaten throughout an entire day of play in a Test since 2018. This is also the highest stand for any wicket against Zimbabwe, breaking the record set in 2004. Additionally, it is the third instance of three Zimbabwe batters scoring a century in a Test innings. Afghanistan's Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi made history on day 3 of the first Test against Zimbabwe with an unbeaten partnership and a record-breaking performance. Their stand of 361* runs is not only the highest for Afghanistan in Tests, but also the second-highest against Zimbabwe. The day also saw three Zimbabwe batsmen scoring centuries, making it the third instance in their history.
Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi's Historic Unbroken Partnership
On Day 3 of the first Test between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe, history was made when Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi formed an unbreakable partnership, becoming the first pair to remain unbeaten throughout an entire day of play in a Test since 2018.
Background:
Rahmat Shah, 32, is an experienced Afghan batsman known for his solid technique and ability to anchor the innings. Hashmatullah Shahidi, 27, is a rising star with a reputation for aggressive stroke-play.
The Record-Breaking Partnership:
On a flat Harare Sports Club pitch, Shah and Shahidi came together at the crease with Afghanistan in trouble at 145-5. They defied the Zimbabwean bowlers with a remarkable display of concentration and skill.
For over five hours, they batted together, adding 361 runs without being separated. Shah reached his second Test century off 187 balls, while Shahidi scored 120 runs off 157 deliveries.
Historical Significance:
Their partnership is not only Afghanistan's highest in Tests but also the second-highest against Zimbabwe. It is the third instance of three Zimbabwean batsmen scoring a century in a Test innings.
Significance for Afghanistan:
This historic feat is a significant achievement for Afghanistan cricket. It demonstrates the team's growing resilience and ability to perform at the highest level. Shah's century was his first in red-ball cricket since 2018, highlighting his return to form.
FAQs:
Q1: When was the last time a pair of batsmen remained unbeaten throughout an entire day of play in a Test? A: 2018, between Sri Lanka's Dimuth Karunaratne and Kusal Perera against South Africa.
Q2: What was the previous highest stand for Afghanistan in Tests? A: 246 runs between Mohammad Nabi and Samiullah Shinwari against Bangladesh in 2019.
Q3: Which other instance of three Zimbabwean batsmen scoring a century in a Test innings happened? A: In 2004, against New Zealand, and in 2017, against Afghanistan.
Q4: How many centuries does Rahmat Shah have in Tests? A: 4
Q5: What is Hashmatullah Shahidi's highest score in Tests? A: 120 (achieved in this match)
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