Zimbabwe’s cricket team has pulled off a stunning upset, beating Bangladesh by three wickets in the first Test of their ongoing tour. The match, held at the Sylhet Stadium, saw the visitors chase down 174 runs, with their nerves tested until the very end.
A Historic Win
This victory marks Zimbabwe’s first Test win on foreign soil in seven years, a feat last achieved in 2018 against the same opponents at the same venue. The win came on the back of some impressive performances from the Zimbabwean players. Blessing Muzarabani was the standout, claiming nine wickets across both innings and earning the Man of the Match award.
Key Moments
Some key moments defined the match:
- Bangladesh were bowled out for 191 in their first innings, with Muzarabani taking three wickets.
- Zimbabwe responded with 273, thanks to half-centuries from Sean Williams (59) and Brian Bennett (57), taking a crucial 82-run lead.
- Bangladesh’s second innings saw them struggle again, being dismissed for 255, with Muzarabani claiming six more wickets to finish with match figures of 9/.
- Chasing 174, Zimbabwe got off to a solid start, with Brian Bennett (54) and Ben Kareni (44) putting on 95 for the first wicket.
The Zimbabwean middle order showed some nerves, but they held their composure to secure a thrilling three-wicket win.
The win was a significant boost for Zimbabwe, who have struggled in Test cricket, boasting a win percentage of just 11.48%. Their last Test win was against Bangladesh in 2018, also at Sylhet. For Bangladesh, it was a disappointing loss, their first home Test defeat since March 2021 when they lost to Afghanistan.
Zimbabwe hold their nerve to beat Bangladesh by three wickets in a nail-biting finish to the first Test in Sylhet! 🔥#BANvZIM pic.twitter.com/OHcagJJHow
— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) April 23, 2025