Johnson Progress.

Zimbabwe has made history by defeating Afghanistan by an innings and 73 runs in a one-off Test match at Harare Sports Club, marking their first Test victory by an innings since 2001.

The win is a testament to Zimbabwe’s resilience and dominance, ending a 12-year drought for home Test victories.

According to Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine, “It is a nice end to a tough year of Test cricket for us. The boys put in a brilliant effort with the bat and the bowlers were outstanding.” Ervine praised the team’s composure and discipline, highlighting Ben Curran’s maiden Test century and the bowling performances of Brad Evans and Richard Ngarava.

Afghanistan’s struggles were evident, with their batters failing to adapt to the pace and discipline required at this level.

Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi acknowledged Zimbabwe’s superiority, saying, “We let ourselves down as a team, and the conditions supported the fast bowlers.”

Zimbabwe’s bowling unit dominated throughout, exploiting the conditions and the inexperienced Afghan lineup with disciplined lines and consistent pressure.

Brad Evans took five wickets in the first Afghan innings, while Richard Ngarava claimed his maiden five-wicket haul in the second innings, finishing with figures of 5/37.

Ben Curran’s classy century anchored Zimbabwe’s dominance, earning him the Player of the Match award.

Curran’s knock was a blend of patience and precision, punishing loose deliveries while negotiating the Afghan spinners with soft hands.

The victory sets up an exciting three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, starting October 29.

Zimbabwe’s next challenge will be to build on this momentum and continue their upward trajectory in international cricket.