Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
BRAD Evans made a dream return to Test cricket, claiming a career-best 5 for 22 to help Zimbabwe dismiss Afghanistan for just 127 runs on the opening day of the only Test at Harare Sports Club this Monday.
Zimbabwe dominated with both bat and bowl on Day One at Harare Sports club with Brad Evans playing his first test since returning from injury leading from the front with a fifer.
Evans whose only other test was two years ago against West Indies continued with his good form on return after impressing recently in the T20 World Cup Qualifiers.
Premier bowler, Blessing Muzarabani got the first wicket, before a run out by Nich Welch brought Zimbabwe back in the game after the Asians seemed to be cruising along and Tanaka Chivanga got the third wicket before Evans ripped through the middle order to dismiss Afghanistan for 127 runs.
“ I think mentality is everything, when I was away I was not just looking for my physicality, but was also making sure that my mind is in the right place because its not just about one part of the game, but at this level ,its all-round preparations and I had to make sure that I am ready,” Evans said.
Even though the hosts lost Brian Bennett early, Zimbabwe’s reply was steady and assured.
Ben Curran and Nich Welch added 95 runs for the second wicket before Brendan Taylor joined in and played some fantastic strokes before bad light forced an early stoppage.
At stumps, Zimbabwe held a narrow three-run lead with eight wickets still in hand and the prospect of building a commanding position on Day 2.
The visitors, however, reckon it is still game on.
“We have to come with a positive mentality. This is test cricket one wicket can change the complexion of the game, same as what happened in our innings,” Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi
Zimbabwe will resume Day Two on 130-2 with Ben Curran and Brendan Taylor on the crease.
