Ziaur Rahman Sharifi delivered a sharp bouncer to dismiss Wessly Madhevere on Day 2 of AFG vs ZIM first Test.

Despite losing Madhevere, Zimbabwe continued to enjoy a productive outing with the bat, largely because of Bennett's outstanding contribution.

The opening Test between Afghanistan and Zimbabwe at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium witnessed plenty of action on Day 2, with the visitors continuing to dominate proceedings with the bat. While Brian Bennett grabbed the headlines with a magnificent century, Afghanistan’s bowlers also produced moments of brilliance in their attempt to fight back. One such moment came when Ziaur Rahman Sharifi delivered a sharp bouncer to dismiss Wessly Madhevere, bringing an important partnership to an end.

Zimbabwe entered the second day in a commanding position after a productive opening day, and their batters continued to frustrate the Afghan bowling attack. However, Sharifi found a way to break through when the hosts desperately needed a breakthrough.

Ziaur Rahman Sharifi dismisses Wessly Madhevere with a brilliant bouncer

The dismissal occurred during the second delivery of the 102nd over, when Sharifi decided to test Madhevere with a short-pitched delivery. Bowling from around the wicket, the Afghan pacer banged the ball into the surface, catching the Zimbabwean batter slightly off guard.

Madhevere appeared late in reacting to the delivery and could not get himself out of its line. The ball took the splice of his bat before ballooning into the air, presenting Afghanistan with a straightforward catching opportunity. Wicketkeeper Ikram Alikhil immediately called for the catch and moved forward to complete it safely. Madhevere had to walk back after scoring his runs, while Sharifi celebrated his first wicket of the match.

The breakthrough was particularly important for Afghanistan as it ended a valuable 96-run partnership. Sharifi’s decision to persist with the short-ball tactic eventually paid off, giving the home side some relief after a difficult period in the field.

Here’s the video:

Zia gets the reward for his incredible bowling! 🙌#AfghanAtalan | #AFGvZIM | #GloriousNationVictoriousTeam pic.twitter.com/WmcE4k3Esr

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) November 6, 2026

Brian Bennett powers Zimbabwe into a commanding position

Despite losing Madhevere, Zimbabwe continued to enjoy a productive outing with the bat, largely because of Bennett’s outstanding contribution. The young Zimbabwean captain carried his excellent form into Day 2 and registered a superb century against the Afghan bowling attack. Having resumed his innings on 71 not out, Bennett displayed tremendous composure and gradually converted his overnight score into a substantial contribution.

His innings proved crucial in helping Zimbabwe maintain control of the contest, particularly as Afghanistan struggled to make regular breakthroughs. Bennett eventually departed after scoring an impressive 128 runs, bringing an end to a memorable batting performance. His century provided Zimbabwe with the platform to build a formidable first-innings total.

After 119 overs, Zimbabwe had reached 443/7, putting themselves in a commanding position in the opening Test. While Sharifi’s dismissal of Madhevere offered Afghanistan a much-needed breakthrough, Bennett’s remarkable innings ensured that the visitors remained firmly on top.