Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
BRIAN BENNETT yesterday emphatically cemented his status as Zimbabwe Cricket’s most thrilling prospect, delivering a truly breathtaking performance during the first innings of the ongoing, historic four-day Test match against England at Trent Bridge.
At just 21, Bennett tore into a formidable England attack, reaching his second Test century off a mere 97 balls. This astonishing feat wasn’t just a personal best; it became the fastest Test century ever by a Zimbabwean, surpassing Sean Williams’ 106-ball effort from 2016. He ultimately fell for a majestic 139 runs from 143 deliveries — his highest score in the longest format — earning a richly deserved standing ovation from the Trent Bridge faithful.
This epochal knock marked a significant milestone: Bennett is now only the second Zimbabwean to register a Test century in England, following Murray Goodwin’s achievement at this very ground in 2000.
Furthermore, he stands as just the third Zimbabwean overall to reach triple figures against England, joining the illustrious ranks of Goodwin and Andy Flower. His 139 also ranks as the second highest score by a Zimbabwean against England in Tests, behind Goodwin’s unbeaten 148, and sets a new record for the highest score by a Zimbabwean opener against them, surpassing Grant Flower’s 73 from 1996.
A dropped chance on 89 by Joe Root allowed him to inflict further damage, with his innings featuring 26 boundaries.
This remarkable display at Trent Bridge, only months after his maiden ton against Afghanistan, firmly underscores Bennett’s immense talent and meteoric rise, confirming his position as a key figure in Zimbabwe’s white-ball squads and their next big star.
