The Test cricket world was stunned as Afghanistan and Zimbabwe delivered a record-shattering, rain-interrupted draw at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo from December 26–30, 2024. Neither side won — but both broke national records, revived long-dormant Test traditions, and reminded the cricketing world that associate nations can still produce unforgettable drama. The match, Zimbabwe’s first Boxing Day Test at home in 28 years, ended in a draw with six wickets still standing and 256 runs still needed — not because of poor play, but because the skies had other plans.
A Batting Bonanza That Rewrote the Books
Zimbabwe, after winning the toss, batted for 135.2 overs and posted 586 — smashing their previous Test record of 563/9 against West Indies in 2001. Veteran Sean Williams led the charge with 154, his fifth Test century, while all-rounder Sikandar Raza chipped in with 87. But Afghanistan didn’t just respond — they obliterated expectations. In 197 overs, they piled on 699, their highest-ever Test total, surpassing their previous best of 545/4 against Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi in 2021. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi played a masterclass, scoring 246 off 474 balls — a patient, punishing knock that anchored the innings. His partner, Rahmat Shah, added a double century of his own, making this the first time two Afghan batters had scored centuries in the same Test innings.Debutants Steal the Spotlight
This wasn’t just about records. It was about renewal. Zimbabwe fielded seven debutants, including Ben Curran, who scored a gritty 41 in the second innings, and Trevor Gwandu, whose defensive grit offered hope for the future. For Afghanistan, Sediqullah Atal and Azmatullah Omarzai made their Test debuts, while spinner Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar took his first three-wicket haul. The real surprise? Brian Bennett of Zimbabwe captured his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket — 5/95 — in his third match. And then there was Afsar Zazai, Afghanistan’s opener, who notched his first Test century. Two nations, two sets of debutants, two players hitting personal milestones on the same pitch. It felt like cricket’s version of a coming-of-age film.Why This Match Matters Beyond the Numbers
Both teams had been winless in Test cricket for nearly four years. Zimbabwe’s last win? March 2021. Afghanistan’s? Also March 2021. That’s not a coincidence — it’s a crisis. The International Cricket Council’s World Test Championship structure has left associate nations stranded, playing once every two years, if that. As one Zimbabwe Cricket Forum user, Kriterion_BD, wrote on December 25, 2024: “Zimbabwe, Ireland, and Afghanistan need to play 5–6 Tests a year if they want to close the significant gulf between themselves and the bottom-ranked WTC sides.” This match wasn’t just a spectacle — it was a plea. For more games. For more funding. For more respect.The Queens Sports Club pitch, traditionally flat and batsman-friendly, played its part. But the real story was the spin. Afghanistan’s attack, led by Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi himself, turned the ball viciously on day three. Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza responded with 16 overs of tight, wicket-taking spin. It was a battle of wits as much as willpower. And then came the rain. On Day 4, only 31 overs were possible. The match, poised for a dramatic finish, was robbed of its climax. Fans left disappointed — but not empty-handed.
What Comes Next? A Two-Test Series With Stakes
This was just the first of two Tests. The second begins in Harare on January 3, 2025. Zimbabwe will be desperate to avoid a series sweep after Afghanistan crushed them in both the T20I and ODI legs. But more than that, they need to prove they’re building something sustainable. For Afghanistan, it’s about proving their 2021 rise wasn’t a flash in the pan. With Hashmatullah Shahidi now a seasoned captain and Rahmat Shah anchoring the middle order, they’re no longer just a team that shows up — they’re a team that competes.There’s a quiet revolution happening here. While the Big Three dominate headlines, these two nations are quietly rebuilding Test cricket from the ground up — with grit, record-breaking performances, and debutants who’ve never played a Test before but now carry the hopes of entire cricketing communities. This wasn’t just a match. It was a statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did this match compare to previous Afghanistan-Zimbabwe Tests?
This was only the second Test between the two nations, with their first encounter in 2021 ending in a 1-1 draw. The 2024 match shattered records: Afghanistan’s 699 was over 150 runs higher than their previous best, and Zimbabwe’s 586 surpassed their 2001 record. The total runs scored (1,435) were the highest in any Test involving an associate nation since 2018.
Why is this Zimbabwe’s first Boxing Day Test in 28 years?
Zimbabwe Cricket suspended regular Boxing Day Tests after 1996 due to financial strain and inconsistent scheduling. The 2024 match was part of a strategic push to revive traditional fixtures and attract international attention. Only three other associate nations — Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands — have hosted Boxing Day Tests since 2000.
What impact does this have on Afghanistan’s Test status?
Afghanistan’s consistent performances, especially high-scoring, competitive Tests like this one, strengthen their case for permanent WTC membership. Their batting depth and spin prowess are now undeniable. If they maintain this form in the second Test, they could climb into the top 10 of the WTC rankings for the first time.
Who were the standout debutants, and what do they mean for the future?
Ben Curran (Zimbabwe) showed composure under pressure with 41 in a tricky chase, while Trevor Gwandu’s defensive technique drew praise from analysts. For Afghanistan, Sediqullah Atal’s opening partnership with Afsar Zazai signaled long-term potential. These players are the foundation of a new generation — and their performances suggest both teams are investing in sustainable talent pipelines, not just short-term fixes.
Why did rain play such a decisive role in the outcome?
Day 4 saw only 31 overs bowled due to persistent rain, preventing Zimbabwe from chasing the required 256 runs with six wickets in hand. Without the weather interruption, Zimbabwe likely would have pushed for a win — or at least forced a follow-on. The rain didn’t just end the match; it denied fans a potential historic finish and robbed both teams of a chance to prove they could win under pressure.
What’s next for associate nations in Test cricket?
This match has reignited calls for more frequent Test fixtures between associate teams. Cricket boards are now under pressure to schedule at least three Tests per year between nations like Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Ireland, and Scotland. Without regular competition, these teams risk falling further behind. The ICC must treat associate Tests as vital — not just as filler, but as the future of the game.
Caden Sinclair
Hi, I'm Caden Sinclair, a sports enthusiast with a passion for motorsports. I've spent years honing my expertise in various racing disciplines and have gained a deep understanding of the technical aspects involved. My love for writing led me to combine these interests, and now I spend my days crafting engaging articles and analyses on the world of motorsports. From Formula 1 to MotoGP, I cover all aspects of the sport, delivering insightful content for fellow enthusiasts to enjoy.
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