Taylor stands firm as Zimbabwe strengthens grip over Afghanistan: 2nd Test, Day 3 (Sharjah)

Zimbabwe strengthened their grip on the second Test against Afghanistan on Day 3 in Sharjah, securing a first-innings lead of 122 runs before reaching 169 for 7 in their second innings.

Afghanistan resumed at 159 for 6 but were dismissed for 217, with Afsar Zazai top-scoring with a determined 63 and Rahmanullah Zadran contributing 34. Vincent Masekesa led Zimbabwe’s bowling attack with 4 for 54, while Blessing Muzarabani claimed three wickets for 38.

Brendan Taylor continued his excellent match with a second-innings 50, while Innocent Kaia added 33 as Zimbabwe extended their overall advantage to 291 runs. Afghanistan fought back through Ziaur Rahman and Yamin Ahmadzai, who claimed two wickets each, but Zimbabwe remained firmly in control with three wickets still available.

Zimbabwe 339 and 169 for 7 (Taylor 50, Kaia 33, Ziaur 2-20, Ahmadzai 2-28) lead Afghanistan 217 (Zazai 63, Rahmanullah 34, Masekesa 4-54, Muzarabani 3-38) by 291 runs.

Nov 2026.