ZIM vs BAN 1st ODI: Zimbabwe stun Bangladesh by 25 runs in low-scoring thriller to take 1-0 series lead | Cricket News
NEW DELHI: Zimbabwe produced a brilliant all-round performance to beat Bangladesh by 25 runs in a thrilling low-scoring contest in the first ODI at the Harare Sports Club on Monday. After being bowled out for just 141, Zimbabwe fought back with the ball to dismiss Bangladesh for 116 in 33.1 overs and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.Newman Nyamhuri was named Player of the Match for his all-round contribution.
Nahid Rana’s six-for rocks Zimbabwe
Bangladesh looked in complete control after electing to bowl first.Fast bowler Nahid Rana ripped through the Zimbabwe batting line-up with superb figures of 6 for 21 from 10 overs. Taskin Ahmed picked up two wickets, while captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz claimed one.Zimbabwe were reduced to 70 for eight inside 20 overs before Nyamhuri and captain Richard Ngarava staged a remarkable recovery.The pair added a crucial 63 runs for the ninth wicket, taking Zimbabwe to 141. Nyamhuri top-scored with 33, while Ngarava contributed 27.
Zimbabwe pacers destroy Bangladesh
Chasing a modest target of 142, Bangladesh suffered a disastrous start.Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava reduced the visitors to 17 for three inside five overs, putting them under immediate pressure.Towhid Hridoy (25) and Nurul Hasan (31) tried to rebuild the innings with a 49-run partnership, giving Bangladesh hope of completing the chase.However, Nyamhuri dismissed Hridoy, triggering another collapse.
Nyamhuri shines with bat and ball
Once Hridoy departed, Zimbabwe seized control.Nyamhuri followed up his valuable knock with the ball, claiming two wickets, while Brad Evans and Richard Ngarava picked up three wickets each. Muzarabani also struck twice.Bangladesh lost wickets at regular intervals and were eventually bowled out for 116, falling 25 runs short.
Zimbabwe take early advantage
Zimbabwe’s bowlers and fielders produced a disciplined display to defend a below-par total. The ninth-wicket stand between Nyamhuri and Ngarava ultimately proved to be the difference in the match.The victory gives Zimbabwe a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.
