Sylhet, Bangladesh — Zimbabwe claimed a memorable three-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the first Test in Sylhet, holding their nerve in a tense run chase to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. The match, which ended on Day 4, saw Zimbabwe chase down a target of 174, finishing on 174/7, despite a fiery five-wicket haul from Mehidy Hasan Miraz.

Zimbabwe’s win was anchored by Blessing Muzarabani, who delivered a Player-of-the-Match performance, claiming 6/72 in the second innings and ending with 9 wickets in the match. His efforts were pivotal in dismissing Bangladesh for 191 in their first innings and 255 in the second, setting the stage for a manageable target.

Zimbabwe posted 273 in their first innings, with Sean Williams top-scoring with a solid 59, giving the visitors a first-innings lead of 82 runs. In reply, Bangladesh fought back in the second innings with Najmul Hossain Shanto scoring a composed 60, but were again undone by Muzarabani’s pace and bounce.

Facing a tricky target of 174 on a deteriorating pitch, Zimbabwe showed composure under pressure. Brian Bennett starred in the chase, scoring a valuable 54, holding the innings together as wickets tumbled at the other end. Despite Mehidy Hasan’s impressive 5/50, Zimbabwe managed to cross the line late on Day 4, sealing victory by three wickets.

Score Summary:

• Bangladesh 1st Innings: 191 all out (Mominul Haque 56; Wellington Masakadza 3/21)
• Zimbabwe 1st Innings: 273 all out (Sean Williams 59; Mehidy Hasan Miraz 5/52)
• Bangladesh 2nd Innings: 255 all out (Najmul Hossain Shanto 60; Blessing Muzarabani 6/72)
• Zimbabwe 2nd Innings: 174/7 (Brian Bennett 54; Mehidy Hasan Miraz 5/50)
• Result: Zimbabwe won by 3 wickets