Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza-Zimpapers Sports
BANGLADESH coach Phil Simmons admitted Zimbabwe thoroughly deserved their emphatic victory in the one-off Test cricket.
He conceded his side were second best in every department as the Chevrons produced a disciplined all-round performance to seal a memorable win.
Zimbabwe wrapped up an historic innings and 85-run victory over Bangladesh inside 47 overs on the final day of their Test match at Harare Sports Club on Tuesday.
Simmons said Bangladesh’s batting during the opening day’s middle session ultimately cost them the match.
“Between lunch and tea on the first day we lost the game, the way we batted in that period,” said Simmons, a former Chevrons coach.
“I think a little more dedication into the batting at that point could have seen us put on a better show in this game.
“But we didn’t play well with the bat.”
The Chevrons capitalised on that early advantage, producing composed batting performances before their bowlers dismantled Bangladesh’s batting line-up to wrap up a convincing victory.
Simmons acknowledged that Zimbabwe simply adapted better to the conditions and executed the basics of Test cricket more effectively.
“I think just the fact that they batted better than us. They played properly on the wicket.
“That happens when you are at home because you know your conditions, so you generally bat better in your conditions.
“Overall, they had a better game than us.”
The former Zimbabwe coach, who guided the Chevrons between 2004 and 2005, also praised the hosts’ professionalism and patience throughout the contest.
“They played professionally. They bowled in the right areas more often than we did.
“The batsmen showed their patience and scored when it was necessary.
“I think they did the right things for Test cricket and the way they played the match showed us that this is the way we have got to play when we come out of Bangladesh.”
Simmons also reserved praise for Newman Nyamhuri, saying the left arm bowler’s energetic spell reflected the commitment shown by the home side.
“There was a lot of energy. He ran in and put all he had into his bowling.
“I think that’s all you ask for from players when they go out there, so I think he did what was asked of him,” he said.
