Ben Curran Shines with First Test Century, Extending Zimbabwe's Lead

Zimbabwe's Ben Curran achieved his inaugural Test century, significantly contributing to his team's 198-run advantage over Afghanistan during the second day of the solitary Test at Harare Sports Club. Curran’s outstanding performance came as Zimbabwe built upon Afghanistan's earlier first innings total.

Afghanistan was dismissed for a mere 127 runs in their initial innings at the Harare Sports Club. In response, Zimbabwe posted a formidable score of 359, with Curran scoring an impressive 121 runs, thus stabilizing his team's batting order.

At 29 years old and sibling to England cricketers Sam and Tom Curran, Ben formed a pivotal 99-run partnership for the fifth wicket alongside Sikandar Raza, who added 65 runs before being caught. This collaboration allowed Zimbabwe to expand their lead over Afghanistan substantially.

Starting their innings at 130-2, with Curran on 52 not out, he brought up his century off 217 deliveries, displaying both skill and patience, before falling lbw. This innings not only marked a career highlight for Curran but was also a crucial moment for Zimbabwe in the match.

Afghanistan's Ziaur Rahman made an impressive debut, capturing 7 wickets for 97 runs, achieving the second-best bowling figures for Afghanistan in Test history, only behind Rashid Khan's 7-66 against Zimbabwe. His efforts kept Afghanistan competitive despite Zimbabwe's resounding total.

With Zimbabwe concluding their first innings at 359, they established a commanding 198-run lead. Afghanistan commenced their second innings, ending the day at 34-1, demonstrating early grit but still finding themselves significantly behind. Zimbabwe’s strong batting performance, particularly highlighted by Curran's century, places them in a strong position.

Ben Curran, hailing from a well-known cricketing family—his brothers Sam and Tom representing England, and their father, Kevin, having played for Zimbabwe—adds another impressive chapter to their family legacy with this century, boosting his confidence on the international arena.

Currently, Zimbabwe stands in a powerful position against Afghanistan in this one-off Test. Holding a hefty 198-run lead and with key wickets intact, the hosts are primed to aim for victory, leveraging their seasoned bowlers alongside Curran’s exceptional performance.