NEW DELHI: Zimbabwe created history on Tuesday by registering their biggest Test win and winning back-to-back Test matches for the first time in over 25 years. Led by: Richard NgaravaZimbabwe defeated Bangladesh by an innings and 85 runs in the one-off Test at the Harare Sports Club. The victory came after their massive innings-and-73-run victory over Afghanistan in October 2025, giving Zimbabwe back-to-back Test victories for the first time since April 2001.The last time Zimbabwe achieved such a feat was when they whitewashed Bangladesh 2-0 in a Test series in 2001. Overall, this is only the third time they have won back-to-back Tests, after also beating India and Pakistan in back-to-back matches in 1998.
Zimbabwe dominated from start to finish
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Zimbabwe’s fast bowlers stepped into Bangladesh’s batting line-up. The visitors were bowled out for just 140 in the first innings after losing eight wickets for just seven runs. Mominul Haque fought alone with 60, while Newman Nyamhuri starred with four wickets. Captain Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani and Brad Evans picked up two wickets each.Zimbabwe then took control of the bat. Innocent Kaia scored a remarkable 140, while Craig Ervine, Brian Bennett and Wessly Madhevere all made half-centuries as the hosts posted 410 in their first innings. Taijul Islam claimed seven wickets for Bangladesh.Holding a huge first-innings lead of 270, Zimbabwe never allowed Bangladesh to get back into the contest. The visitors were dismissed for 185 in their second innings as Ngarava, Muzarabani, Evans and Nyamhuri again shared the wickets to seal a memorable win.
Ngarava proud after making history
Zimbabwe captain Richard Ngarava said the achievement meant a lot to the team.“Well, it’s a great feeling to make history. It’s two in a row series, and it’s always a great feeling and hopefully we can continue it.”He also praised Zimbabwe’s growing pool of players and said it has strengthened the team.“It’s very important because since then, we were looking at like 25 players, 30, and there are 42 players now, that’s a bigger pool, and we might want to share the tasks with the bowlers more.The captain highlighted the contributions from his batters and had special praise for youngster Newman Nyamhuri.“Brian Bennett has been one of the best batters on our team, and everybody, they have to put in some runs, and that makes a team. Everybody has to contribute something. And, that’s why you see this W result.Looking ahead to the ODI series, Ngarava said.“There will be a couple of days off, but I’m looking forward to the ODIs and will take it day by day and see how it goes.”