Zimbabwe Sets Historic Record with 500+ Runs in Both Innings Against Afghanistan

Zimbabwe Achieves Unprecedented Feat in Test Cricket

Sharjah [UAE], November 9: In a remarkable achievement, Zimbabwe has become the first team in the history of Test cricket to score over 500 runs in both innings of a match. This milestone was reached during their drawn first Test against Afghanistan at Sharjah on Monday, as reported by the ICC.

Zimbabwe posted a total of 504 runs in their first innings and followed it up with an impressive 523 for 5 in their second innings. Craig Ervine and Wessly Madhevere finished the match unbeaten, scoring 206 and 100 runs, respectively, as the final day concluded.

The match ended in a draw, leaving both teams eager for the second and final Test, which is set to commence at the same venue on November 13.

At 41 years and 82 days, Ervine also made history by becoming the third-oldest player to achieve a double century in Test cricket, following South Africa's Eric Rowan and England's Jack Hobbs.

Zimbabwe began the final day at 164 for 3, with Ervine and Brian Bennett at the crease after Afghanistan had taken a narrow 10-run lead in the first innings.

Bennett contributed a half-century before being dismissed by Mohammad Saleem. Debutant Antum Naqvi added 61 runs, forming a significant 140-run partnership with Ervine before falling to Abdul Malik.

Madhevere then joined Ervine, and together they forged an unbeaten 208-run partnership for the sixth wicket, marking the highest partnership for that wicket in Zimbabwe's Test history. Madhevere also celebrated his first Test century.

Afghanistan's bowlers found it challenging to penetrate a batting-friendly pitch, allowing Zimbabwe to capitalize and achieve this historic record.

The upcoming second Test between the two teams will take place from November 13 to 17 in Sharjah.