Brendan Taylor's century and Brian Bennett's unbeaten 71 put Zimbabwe on 326 for five in Sharjah. Afghanistan took three late wickets before Bennett and Wessly Madhevere steadied the innings.
Amir Jangoo's second Test century and Kevin Wickham's debut fifty rescued West Indies against Bangladesh. The visitors closed the opening day in Sylhet on 235 for four after an early collapse.
Steve Tandy has defended selecting players on form rather than club location after Wales named nine England-based starters. He acknowledged that overseas club commitments reduce time with the national squad.
Newcastle have confirmed Joelinton is unavailable through injury, with no recovery timetable set. Matthias Jaissle also says he feels support from inside the club after a difficult run of results.
Flacks Group says its checks are complete and concerns over the Gateshead deal have been addressed. Approval from the Independent Football Regulator remains outstanding.
Gateshead MP Mark Ferguson has contacted the Independent Football Regulator as a stalled takeover adds to the club’s financial problems. BBC Sport reports that the National League side is also facing delayed matchday income and a substantial tax bill.
