Zimbabwe Secures First Away Test Victory Since 2018

SYLHET: A remarkable performance by right-arm fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani, who achieved match figures of 9/122, combined with Brian Bennett’s twin half-centuries, powered Zimbabwe to a significant three-wicket triumph over Bangladesh. This victory, marking the end of a long wait, occurred in the first Test of the two-match series held at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.

The Zimbabweans’ impressive win marked their first victory in an away Test match since 2018. Notably, their previous success was also against the same opponent at the same venue.

Furthermore, Zimbabwe achieved their highest successful run chase in Test history, surpassing their previous best of 162 against Pakistan in November 1998.

Key Performances in the Run Chase

Openers Bennett and Ben Curran were instrumental in the chase, establishing a crucial 45-run partnership that laid the foundation for the victory.

Bennett, who scored 57 in the first innings, once again led the scoring with a well-composed 54 off 81 balls, including seven boundaries and a six.

Curran supported him with a solid 44 from 75 deliveries, hitting seven fours.

Wessly Madhevere’s unbeaten 19 also played a vital role in guiding Zimbabwe to victory.

Bangladeshi Bowling Efforts

Mehidy Hasan Miraz was the pick of the bowlers for Bangladesh, claiming five wickets for 55 runs in 22.1 overs, while Taijul Islam took two.

Bangladesh’s Second Innings

Earlier, Bangladesh resumed their second innings on 194/4, with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and wicketkeeper Jaker Ali at the crease.

Holding a lead of 112 runs with six wickets in hand, the hosts were in a seemingly strong position.

However, they lost their remaining six wickets for a mere 31 runs and were all out for 225.

Shanto top-scored for Bangladesh with 60, followed by Ali’s 58.

Blessing Muzarabani was the chief destroyer for Zimbabwe, bagging six wickets for 72 runs in 20.2 overs, with Wellington Masakadza taking two wickets.