HARARE – Zimbabwe recorded the biggest Test victory in their history after crushing Bangladesh by an innings and 85 runs in the one-off Test match at Harare Sports Club.
A disciplined bowling attack and a dominant batting display secured Zimbabwe's second successive innings victory, following last year's win over Afghanistan.
 |
| Image: Zimbabwe Cricket |
Zimbabwe ruthless on Day 1
New captain Richard Ngarava won the toss and elected to bowl first, backing his four-man pace attack to utilise seam-friendly conditions at Harare Sports Club.
He was duly rewarded as Zimbabwe seized control after bowling Bangladesh out for 140 despite Mominul Haque's 60. Newman Nyamhuri starred with career-best figures of 4/61, while Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava claimed two wickets each as Bangladesh lost their last seven wickets for just 27 runs.
In reply, Zimbabwe closed on 135/1, just five runs behind, with Innocent Kaia unbeaten on 76 after Ben Curran had provided a fluent 42-run start. Brendan Taylor remained 17 not out, leaving the hosts firmly in command.
Innocent Kaia hits century as Zimbabwe set 270-run lead
Kaia converted his overnight score into a magnificent maiden Test century, making 140 from 227 balls to anchor Zimbabwe's first-innings total of 410.
Brian Bennett added 59, captain Craig Ervine contributed 60 and Wessly Madhevere finished unbeaten on 77 as Zimbabwe built a commanding 270-run lead. Taijul Islam claimed 7/138 for Bangladesh.
The visitors reached 40/1 at stumps in their second innings, still needing a huge effort to avoid defeat.
Zimbabwe finish the job on Day 3
Zimbabwe wrapped up victory by dismissing Bangladesh for 185, completing an innings-and-85-run triumph.
Muzarabani led the attack with 4/65 after removing the overnight batters early, while Nyamhuri and Ngarava shared the remaining wickets as Bangladesh never recovered from another top-order collapse.
The victory marked Zimbabwe's second consecutive innings win in Tests and surpassed their previous record victory over Afghanistan.
Kaia, whose 140 matched Bangladesh's entire first-innings total, was deservedly named Player of the Match.
0 Comments