Zimbabwe Stun Bangladesh with Historic Chase in Sylhet Test Victory
Zimbabwe pulled off a thrilling three-wicket win against Bangladesh on day four of the first Test in Sylhet, going 1-0 up in the two-match series. The victory marks Zimbabwe’s fifth overseas Test win and their highest successful fourth-innings run chase to date. Their last away Test win came in 2021 against Afghanistan.
Blessing Muzarabani was the star of the match, claiming nine wickets across both innings and playing a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s triumph. But it was the composed efforts of Wessly Madhevere and tailender Richard Ngarava that eventually sealed the deal after a nerve-racking batting collapse while chasing just 174 runs.
Bangladesh’s Mehidy Hasan Miraz gave the hosts a fighting chance, bagging 10 wickets in the match, including his 200th Test scalp. He nearly flipped the script with a five-for in the second innings, dismantling Zimbabwe’s middle order. But Madhevere held his nerve and finished the job with a reverse sweep that found the boundary and cemented the historic win.
Zimbabwe got off to a strong start with openers Brian Bennett and Ben Curran putting up 95 runs in just 21 overs. However, Mehidy turned the game on its head, dismissing both openers and sparking a collapse that saw Zimbabwe go from 127 for 2 to 145 for 6.
Taijul Islam also chipped in, removing key batters including Craig Ervine and Nick Welch. But just as it looked like Bangladesh might snatch victory, Wellington Masakadza and Ngarava added crucial runs to bring the target within reach.
Ngarava confidently struck a boundary off Mehidy before Madhevere struck successive fours to guide Zimbabwe home in a match that will be remembered for its drama and determination.
Earlier in the day, Zimbabwe’s bowlers set the tone by wrapping up Bangladesh’s innings quickly after a delayed start due to rain. Muzarabani led the charge, removing Najmul Hossain Shanto early and following up with key wickets including Mehidy and Jaker Ali. He finished with figures of 6 for 68 in the second innings and 9 for 122 in the match—the best by a Zimbabwean in Bangladesh.
With this win, Zimbabwe have not only taken a series lead but also delivered a powerful message about their growing presence in international Test cricket.