Story by Lawrence Trusida
ZIMBABWE produced one of the greatest bowling performances in their One-Day International history after successfully defending just 141 to beat Bangladesh by 25 runs in the opening ODI at Harare Sports Club this Monday.
They say in one-day cricket, totals below 200 rarely survive. But Zimbabwe have once again reminded the cricket world that scoreboards do not always tell the full story.
After being bowled out for 141 in 37 overs, Zimbabwe appeared destined for defeat against a Bangladesh side that arrived in Harare in impressive ODI form.
However, the hosts mounted a spirited fightback with the ball, dismissing Bangladesh for 116 to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
The pace attack led the charge, with Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Brad Evans and Newman Nyamhuri combining to dismantle the visitors and turn the contest on its head.
“Great victory shows a lot of character from the team; we were dead and buried, but the team fought hard, not giving up but always believing that they can win the match, and this is a belief that we have been carrying for some time now,” Chevrons coach Justine Simmonds said.
The triumph now joins an exclusive list of Zimbabwe’s greatest successful ODI defences.
In 2017, they defended 129 against Afghanistan, before that came memorable victories defending 138 against the West Indies in 2001 and 134 against England at the 1992 World Cup.
In an era dominated by massive totals and power hitting, Zimbabwe continue to prove that disciplined fast bowling, relentless pressure and unwavering belief can still overturn the odds.
The two teams are back at Harare Sports Club on Thursday for the second One Day International.
