Zim edge Bangladesh in tense first test finish

Witness Runodada- Zim Now Reporter

Zimbabwe clinched a dramatic three-wicket win over Bangladesh in Sylhet, sealing a historic and morale-boosting victory in the first Test of the series.

Chasing a modest target of 174 on a turning Day 4 pitch, Zimbabwe held their nerve in a tense final session to go 1-0 up in the series.

Openers Takudzwanashe Kaitano and Ben Curran laid a solid foundation with a 95-run stand, blunting Bangladesh’s early attack. Curran, who scored 44, was eventually dismissed by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, triggering a middle-order wobble.

By tea, Zimbabwe had lost three wickets but remained in control, needing just 57 runs with seven wickets in hand. However, the final session saw a dramatic twist. Bangladesh struck back, reducing the visitors to 145 for 6, injecting tension into the chase.

Wessly Madhevere and Wellington Masakadza attempted to steady the innings, but Masakadza’s departure with 29 still needed left Zimbabwe in a precarious spot. Madhevere, showing composure beyond his years, anchored the tail-end resistance. When Richard Ngarava joined him, only four runs separated Zimbabwe from victory—with three wickets in hand.

Together, they held their nerve, guiding Zimbabwe to 170 for 7 and sparking jubilant celebrations.

The standout performer was fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani, who claimed Player of the Match honors with figures of 3 for 50 in the first innings and a career-best 6 for 72 in the second. His pace and precision were instrumental in rattling Bangladesh’s batting line-up and keeping Zimbabwe in the contest.

The victory sparked widespread celebration among fans and cricket commentators alike.

“Well done boys… credit to our bowlers and the opening batsmen. I think we found the missing piece of the puzzle pama openers,” tweeted an elated T Bag.

British diplomat Pete Vowles added: “Congrats to @ZimCricketv for beating Bangladesh in the first test. Opens an exciting series and a great build up to the test against England in May.”