Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
EMERGING from a stellar domestic season as the Logan Cup’s leading wicket-taker, Vincent Masekesa made an instant impact on his Test debut for Zimbabwe against Bangladesh in Chattogram. The 28-year-old Mega Market Mountaineers player delivered a memorable performance, etching his name in the nation’s cricket history by becoming only the third Zimbabwean to claim a five-wicket haul on his Test debut.
The rare feat puts him in the company of Andy Blignaut and John Nyumbu. Despite the team’s defeat, Masekesa’s performance caught the eye, earning praise from Chevrons’ head coach Justin Sammons for his remarkable debut.
“The standout or the big takeaway from this game for us would be Vincent Masekesa’s performance. On debut, to go and do what he did was really pleasing to see. He showed real character, and we are excited about that,” said Sammons.
Skipper Craig Ervine also voiced his pleasure at Masekesa’s impressive introduction to international cricket.
“The guys are really chuffed for him. He has a bright future; his attitude is outstanding. Getting five wickets on your debut is outstanding,” said Ervine.
Earlier, Masekesa revealed his inspiration came from the late Australian leg spin legend, Shane Warne. He also cited former Zimbabwe captain Graeme Cremer as a significant influence, alongside a few current players.
“I am always a big fan of leg-spinners. Shane Warne, obviously, and most of the Zimbabwe leg-spinners, and growing up, Graeme Cremer was there. I also look up to Adil Rashid from England, (Yuzvendra) Chahal from India, and (Adam) Zampa from Australia. Even Rishad (Hossain) from Bangladesh,” said Masekesa.
Despite Masekesa’s impressive debut, Zimbabwe fell to an innings and 106-run defeat against Bangladesh in Chattogram. This marked Zimbabwe’s second successive loss at the venue and the second time Bangladesh have won by an innings against them.
Following the Bangladesh series, Zimbabwe’s attention now turns to England for a historic one-off four-day Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, commencing on 22 May. This will be their first encounter in over two decades. Subsequently, the Chevrons will host both New Zealand and South Africa for two Test matches each at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, between June and August.–@brandon_malvin
