ZIM vs AFG: Rahmat Shah century puts Afghanistan in commanding position on Day 3

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ZIM vs AFG: Afghanistan ended Day 3 of their Test against Zimbabwe in a strong position, thanks to a remarkable century by Rahmat Shah. The visitors closed at 291 for 7 in their second innings, leading Zimbabwe by 205 runs.

Starting the day trailing by 86 runs, Afghanistan lost two quick wickets in the morning session, with Richard Ngarava removing Zia-ur-Rehman and Afsar Zazai. However, Rahmat Shah anchored the innings with a patient knock, supported by Shahidullah and debutant Ismat Aslam.

The turning point was a 67-run stand between Rahmat and Shahidullah, which saw Afghanistan erase the deficit and build a modest lead. Rahmat was cautious at the start, taking 19 deliveries to score his first run. He accelerated later, driving Blessing Muzarabani for consecutive boundaries and reaching his half-century off 99 balls. Shahidullah added crucial runs before being dismissed for 35, caught at silly point off Muzarabani.

Rahmat's next partnership with Ismat Aslam proved pivotal. The duo added 132 runs for the seventh wicket, the highest stand for Afghanistan in Tests for this wicket. Rahmat brought up his third Test century off 209 balls, showcasing resilience and precision. Ismat, who had been dismissed for a duck in the first innings, displayed grit to score his maiden Test fifty.

Zimbabwe's bowlers, particularly Muzarabani and Ngarava, kept probing. Muzarabani eventually dismissed Rahmat for 139 with a ball that seamed in, trapping him lbw. Despite Rahmat's frustration at the decision, there was no DRS available to contest the call.

As the day progressed, Ismat shifted gears, finding the boundary regularly. However, Zimbabwe missed a critical chance when Ismat was dropped by Craig Ervine at slip on 47. He capitalized on the reprieve to reach 64* by stumps.

Rashid Khan joined Ismat and added a quick 12 off as many balls before rain halted play prematurely. With three wickets in hand and a lead exceeding 200, Afghanistan is well-placed to dictate terms on a pitch that promises challenges for the side batting last. Zimbabwe will need a disciplined effort on Day 4 to restrict Afghanistan's tail and keep the target within reach.