Zimbabwe draw first blood in T20I series against Bangladesh in Bulawayo

By SABC Sport
15th July 2026

Zimbabwe drew first blood in the three-match T20I series at home against Bangladesh after a 32-run victory in Bulawayo on Wednesday.

Fast-bowling duo Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani both took four wickets as the home side defended at a target of 171 at the Queen's Sports Club.

Bangladesh were quickly pegged back in the run-chase as they slipped to 34-3 before Yasir Ali struck a brisk from 38 balls but the visitors just losing wickets at regular intervals to fall well short to be bowled out for 138.

Zimbabwe had earlier posted a total of 170-6 in their 20 overs after being inserted to bat at the toss, with opener Brian Bennett top-scoring with 44 off 30 deliveries.

There were solid contributions in the middle-order with Ryan Burl hitting an unbeaten 30 while Dion Myers and Sikandar Raza both scored 20.

Brad Evans gave the innings a vital late boost with 19 not out from just 10 balls to the hosts to the home team to the 170-run mark.

Zimbabwe can seal the series with the second game set to be played at the same venue on Friday before the finale on Sunday.