Online Reporter
Don Makanyanga
Online Writer
ZIMBABWE produced one of the greatest performances in their Test cricket history after crushing Bangladesh by an innings and 85 runs on the third day of the one-off Test, securing their biggest-ever victory in the longest format of the game.
The historic win was wrapped up during the second session on Day 3.
It marked Zimbabwe’s second consecutive innings victory following their dominant win over Afghanistan late last year.
The victory was significant as it levelled the overall Test head-to-head record between Zimbabwe and Bangladesh at 9-9, ending Bangladesh’s recent dominance.
After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Zimbabwe laid a solid foundation with the bat, spearheaded by opener Innocent Kaia, whose composed first-century innings anchored the hosts to a commanding first-innings total of 410 runs.
Bangladesh was then dismissed for just 140 in their first innings as Zimbabwe’s pace attack took complete control of the match.
The visitors fared a little better in their second innings, collapsing again under relentless pressure as Zimbabwe sealed victory by an innings and 85 runs.
Bangladesh was bowled out for 185 runs in 45 overs.
Fast bowlers Blessing Muzarabani and Newman Nyamhuri spearheaded the bowling attack, claiming six wickets each across Bangladesh’s two innings to dismantle the tourists’ batting line-up.
Newly appointed Test captain Richard Ngarava led from the front and claimed five wickets during the match to cap a dream start to his leadership.
In leading Zimbabwe to the win, Ngarava joined the club of Stuart Carlise and Brendon Taylor in winning a Test match on your first outing in the role.
