Brad Evans Creates History with Best Test Bowling Figures for Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe pace bowler Brad Evans had a stunning debut on the first day of the Afghanistan one-off Test at Harare Sports Club. Appearing in only his second Test match and his first since February 2023, Evans produced an outstanding bowling display, claiming five wickets and giving away a mere 22 runs off 9.3 overs.

Evans sent out their major Afghan batters, such as Hashmatullah Shahidi and Afsar Zazai, before dispatching the tailenders in a rush. Afghanistan was bowled out for only 127 runs soon after the first lunch break, leaving Zimbabwe sitting pretty.

Breaking Heath Streak's Long-Standing Record

Brad Evans' totals of 5-22 are now the record lowest runs conceded to take five wickets in an innings in Zimbabwe Test cricket history. He broke the record previously held by former captain Heath Streak, who took 5-27 against the West Indies in March 2000 at Port of Spain.

Evans' five-wicket haul is also his first in Test cricket, adding to the performance's excellence. This record-breaking performance showcases Evans' speed and precision and becomes a new benchmark for Zimbabwean fast bowlers.

Top Five-Wicket Hauls by Zimbabwe Bowlers in Tests:

Zimbabwe Dominates with Strong Batting

After Evans' sensational bowling spell, Zimbabwe batters took advantage of the momentum. Ben Curran dominated an innings of 121 runs, and Sikandar Raza contributed 65. Zimbabwe scored a total of 359, creating a huge 232-run lead over Afghanistan.

With the ball, Ziaur Rahman of Afghanistan picked up seven wickets for 97 runs from 32 overs. At the end of Day 2, Afghanistan are at 34-1, still behind Zimbabwe by 198 runs, and it underlined the commanding position of Zimbabwe on the first day of the Test.