Zimbabwe stuns Bangladesh in low scoring thriller despite Rana’s 6-21: 1st ODI (Harare)

Paceman Richard Ngarava led a stunning fightback as Zimbabwe claimed an upset victory over Bangladesh in the opening ODI in Harare, successfully defending a modest total of 141 to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Bangladesh pace bowler Nahid Rana starred with career-best figures of 6 for 21 as Zimbabwe were bowled out in 36.4 overs, but a crucial 63-run ninth-wicket partnership between Newman Nyamhuri (33) and captain Richard Ngarava (27) lifted the hosts to a competitive total.

Bangladesh’s chase never gathered momentum as they were dismissed for 116 in 33.1 overs. Richard Ngarava and Brad Evans claimed three wickets apiece, while Newman Nyamhuri capped an outstanding all-round display with two wickets to earn the Player of the Match award.

Towhid Hridoy top-scored with 37, but Zimbabwe’s disciplined seam attack ensured the visitors fell well short of the target.

Zimbabwe 141 (Nyamhuri 33, Ngarava 27, Rana 6-21, Taskin 2-32) beat Bangladesh 116 (Nurul 31, Ngarava 3-31, Evans 3-34, Nyamhuri 2-22, Muzarabani 2-24) by 25 runs.

July 2026.