Zimbabwe has secured a much-needed and morale-boosting Test victory over Bangladesh in Sylhet, winning by three wickets in a tightly contested encounter. This triumph holds great significance for the Chevrons, especially after back-to-back Test defeats earlier in the year—first to Afghanistan in January, followed by a painful loss to Ireland in February. With questions beginning to swirl around Zimbabwe’s standing in red-ball cricket, this result comes at the perfect time to steady the ship.
Bangladesh, playing at home at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, were bowled out for 191 in their first innings, with Zimbabwe’s bowlers showing great discipline and intent. In response, Zimbabwe posted a competitive 273, thanks to solid knocks from Sean Williams (59) and young Brian Bennett (57), whose temperament continues to impress.
In their second innings, Bangladesh improved slightly, reaching 255, but the innings belonged to Blessing Muzarabani. The tall seamer tore through the batting line-up with a sensational spell, finishing with figures of 6 for 72, a performance that ultimately swung the match in Zimbabwe’s favour.
Needing 174 runs for victory, Zimbabwe kept their nerve despite a few stumbles along the way. Brian Bennett once again stepped up with a composed 54, guiding Zimbabwe to the target and sealing a historic win away from home. Muzarabani was rightly named Player of the Match for his match-winning spell.
The win injects belief into the Zimbabwean Test side and offers a platform to build upon ahead of the second Test, which will be played in Chattogram on 28 April. With renewed confidence and a sense of momentum, Zimbabwe will look to carry their form forward and make it 2–0 in the series.
