Zimbabwe Stuns Pakistan with Historic 24-Run Test Victory

Zimbabwe Stuns Pakistan with Historic 24-Run Test Victory

In a thrilling Test match played in Harare from September 3-7, 2013, Zimbabwe pulled off a remarkable 24-run victory over Pakistan, marking their first Test win against the Asian giants in over a decade.

Zimbabwe, batting first, posted a competitive 294 in their first innings, thanks to half-centuries from Brendan Taylor (51) and Hamilton Masakadza (75). Pakistan responded with 230, anchored by Younis Khan’s gritty 87, but Zimbabwe held onto a narrow lead.

In their second innings, Zimbabwe scored 199, setting Pakistan a target of 264 to chase. Despite Pakistan’s formidable batting lineup, they crumbled under pressure in the final innings.

Tendai Chatara emerged as Zimbabwe’s bowling hero, taking 5 wickets for 61 runs. Pakistan struggled against Zimbabwe’s disciplined attack, with only Misbah-ul-Haq showing resilience with a well-fought 79. However, Pakistan were bowled out for 239, falling short by 24 runs.

This victory was Zimbabwe’s third Test win over Pakistan, following earlier triumphs in 1995 in Harare and in Peshawar in 1998. It also prevented Pakistan from completing a clean sweep of the two-match series, as they had won the first Test by a massive 221 runs.

Zimbabwe’s stunning victory was a testament to their resilience and determination, and it marked a significant moment in their cricketing history.

England Announce Home Fixtures for 2025, India Series to Highlight Season

England Announce Home Fixtures for 2025, India Series to Highlight Season

England’s 2025 home cricket season promises an exciting array of fixtures, with both the men’s and women’s teams hosting major series. The highlight will be the five-Test series against India, which will run concurrently with a five-match T20I series between the women’s teams.

The season kicks off on May 21 with England Women facing West Indies in the first of three T20Is. The men’s team will then take on Zimbabwe in a one-off Test at Trent Bridge from May 22-25. This will be the first Test meeting between the two sides since the 2007 World T20.

The white-ball series against West Indies will follow, with three ODIs and three T20Is scheduled. The men’s team will then host India for a five-Test series, starting at Headingley on June 20. The women’s team will also face India in a five-match T20I series, beginning at Trent Bridge on June 28.

The Hundred is likely to occupy much of August, but England Men will conclude their international program with six white-ball games against South Africa before traveling to Ireland for a three-match ODI series.

In 2026, Lord’s will host its first women’s Test when India return for a one-off game. This will be a historic occasion, marking a significant milestone in the growth of women’s cricket.

ECB Chief Executive Officer Richard Gould expressed his excitement about the upcoming season, saying, “Staging England Men’s and England Women’s series alongside each other has been popular with fans and supported the continued growth of the women’s game.”

He added, “India touring is always a big draw and a highlight of any cricket summer. I’m delighted we’ll also be welcoming both West Indies teams back again for white-ball series, following this year’s men’s Test series.”

Sikandar Raza Rejects Pakistan Offer, Remains Loyal to Zimbabwe

Sikandar Raza Rejects Pakistan Offer, Remains Loyal to Zimbabwe

Sikandar Raza, the Zimbabwean all-rounder, has established himself as one of the most talented players in the country’s cricketing history. Since his international debut in 2013, Raza has made significant contributions across all formats, including 17 Tests, 142 ODIs, and 91 T20Is.

Beyond his international exploits, Raza has also showcased his skills in domestic leagues such as the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL). His versatility as a batsman and bowler has made him a valuable asset to any team.

Recently, Raza’s loyalty to Zimbabwe Cricket was questioned on social media. A fan inquired if he had ever considered playing for Pakistan, his country of birth. However, Raza remained steadfast in his commitment to Zimbabwe, expressing his gratitude for the support and investment the board had made in his career.

“I will only and ever represent Zimbabwe,” Raza stated. “They spent time and money on me, and I am only trying to repay their faith. Whatever I achieve will never even get close to repaying it. Zim is mine, and I am theirs fully.”

In a separate post, Raza revealed his admiration for several international players, including India’s Jasprit Bumrah, Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi, and former West Indies all-rounder Sunil Narine. He also named Abdullah Shafiq, Craig Ervine, and Rohit Sharma as his favorite batsmen.

Raza’s leadership qualities were evident during Zimbabwe’s recent T20I series against India, where he captained the team. Despite taking an early lead, Zimbabwe ultimately lost the series 4-1.

Statistically, Raza has amassed 1187 runs and 34 wickets in Tests, 4154 runs in ODIs, and 2037 runs in T20Is. In the IPL, he has represented Punjab Kings, scoring 182 runs and taking three wickets in nine matches.

Raza’s unwavering loyalty to Zimbabwe Cricket, combined with his exceptional talent and leadership abilities, solidifies his status as one of the most respected and influential players in the country’s cricketing history.

All-Run Five Magic: Ireland and Zimbabwe Recreate 1992 India-Australia Classic

All-Run Five Magic: Ireland and Zimbabwe Recreate 1992 India-Australia Classic

Ireland and Zimbabwe Recreate Rare All-Run Five, Reminiscent of 1992 India-Australia Classic

On Day 4 of the one-off Test between Ireland and Zimbabwe at Belfast’s Civil Service Cricket Club, an extraordinary and rare incident occurred that sparked widespread excitement on social media. Ireland batters Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine completed an all-run five during their team’s second innings, a feat that brought back memories of a similar moment from 1992.

In the 18th over of Ireland’s chase of 158, McBrine punched a delivery from Zimbabwe’s Richard Ngarava through the covers. Zimbabwe fielder Tendai Chatara chased the ball and managed to stop it just inside the ropes. However, Tucker and McBrine showcased remarkable running between the wickets, completing five runs.

This exceptional play contributed significantly to Ireland’s recovery and eventual four-wicket victory, with McBrine remaining unbeaten on 55. The viral video of this incident brought to mind the 1992 match between India and Australia at the Adelaide Oval.

During India’s first innings, Javagal Srinath drove a pitch-up delivery from Australia’s Craig McDermott through the off-side. Allan Border, fielding at mid-off, chased the ball as it raced towards the boundary. Border managed to save the boundary, but the Indian tailenders Raju and Srinath ran five, marking a rare achievement in cricket history.

The resurgence of these videos has created a buzz on social media platforms, with fans and analysts reminiscing about these remarkable moments. These incidents, separated by decades, highlight the spirit of cricket and the unforgettable moments that make the sport beloved by millions worldwide.

Ireland Seal Historic Test Victory Over Zimbabwe

Ireland Seal Historic Test Victory Over Zimbabwe

Ireland’s historic Test victory over Zimbabwe was sealed on the fourth day at Belfast, marking their first home Test win and their second consecutive Test triumph.

After being reduced to 21 for 5 on the third evening, Ireland’s Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine staged a remarkable recovery with a 96-run partnership. Tucker scored a gritty 56, while McBrine remained unbeaten on 55, guiding Ireland to a four-wicket victory.

The morning session on the fourth day proved decisive as Ireland capitalized on the favorable batting conditions. Tucker and McBrine attacked the Zimbabwean bowlers, exploiting the gaps in the outfield and punishing loose deliveries.

Zimbabwe’s hopes of a comeback were dashed as Ngarava and Muzarabani, who had wreaked havoc on the third evening, failed to replicate their performance. The Irish batters remained disciplined and played with confidence, gradually chipping away at the target.

McBrine’s all-round performance was crucial for Ireland. In addition to his half-century, he also claimed four wickets in Zimbabwe’s second innings, including the key wicket of Craig Ervine.

Zimbabwe’s batting had been led by Tadiwanashe Marumani’s 74 in the first innings and Ryan Burl’s 57 in the second. However, Ireland’s bowlers, led by McBrine and Mark Adair, kept the Zimbabwean batsmen in check.

Ireland’s victory is a testament to their resilience and determination. After a disappointing start to the Test, they fought back admirably to secure a memorable win.

Ireland to Host Zimbabwe in Historic Test Debut at Civil Service Cricket Ground

Ireland to Host Zimbabwe in Historic Test Debut at Civil Service Cricket Ground

Ireland Set to Host Zimbabwe in Historic Test Debut at Civil Service Cricket Ground

The picturesque Civil Service Cricket Ground in Belfast, Northern Ireland, will make its Test debut on Thursday as Ireland welcomes Zimbabwe for the ninth Test match in their history. Ireland, who have won only one of their previous eight Tests, will be aiming to secure a second consecutive victory after their triumph over Afghanistan in March.

However, Ireland will be without their star bowler Josh Little, who has been allowed to develop his skills in franchise leagues around the world. In his absence, Mark Adair and Barry McCarthy will lead the Irish attack. For Adair, a native of Northern Ireland, playing a Test in Belfast holds special significance.

Zimbabwe, on the other hand, are facing one of their lowest points in international cricket. They have not participated in recent ODI and T20I World Cups and are not part of the World Test Championship. With only two Test wins since 2013, Zimbabwe will need to rely on the experience of captain Craig Ervine and Sean Williams.

One player to watch for Zimbabwe is Blessing Muzarabani, a tall fast bowler who has impressed in white-ball cricket. His ability to generate movement in the air and off the pitch could pose a challenge to Ireland’s batters.

Ireland is expected to make one change from their victory against Afghanistan, with left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys likely to replace Theo van Woerkom. Zimbabwe, with ten new players in their squad, could include Brian Bennett and Johnathan Campbell in their XI.

The weather forecast for Belfast predicts rain throughout the five-day Test, which could make batting conditions challenging. However, the venue has been a high-scoring ground in limited-overs matches.

Zimbabwe Cricket Lifts Suspensions of Madhevere and Mavuta After Drug Rehabilitation

Zimbabwe Cricket Lifts Suspensions of Madhevere and Mavuta After Drug Rehabilitation

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has lifted the suspensions of Wessly Madhevere and Brandon Mavuta, allowing them to resume competitive cricket after completing their four-month bans for drug use. The duo tested positive for a recreational drug during an in-house dope test in December 2023.

As part of their rehabilitation, Madhevere and Mavuta underwent training under ZC’s high-performance program and were fined 50% of their salaries for three months. They have since cleared drug tests conducted after their suspension period ended.

ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni welcomed the players’ return, stating, “I am pleased to welcome Wessly and Brandon back to competitive cricket after both of them underwent rehabilitation and also passed a drug test carried out to check if they were now clean.”

Makoni emphasized the players’ acknowledgment of their mistakes and their commitment to staying clean. However, there is no update on batter Kevin Kasuza, who was also suspended in January for a similar offense.

Meanwhile, ZC academy player Davis Murwendo has tested positive for a social drug in the latest round of internal tests and is scheduled for a hearing.

ZC’s anti-drugs program is voluntary and separate from ICC and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) obligations. Makoni explained, “Recognizing the dangers that recreational drugs may cause, ZC opted to go beyond the ICC and WADA obligations by implementing an in-house drugs testing programme.”

This initiative provides education, counseling, and treatment to rehabilitate players involved with social drugs.

Saifuddin Returns as Bangladesh Announces Squad for Zimbabwe T20Is

Saifuddin Returns as Bangladesh Announces Squad for Zimbabwe T20Is

Bangladesh has announced its squad for the first three T20Is of the five-match series against Zimbabwe, with Mohammad Saifuddin making a comeback. The squad also includes left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam, allrounder Afif Hossain, and opening batters Tanzid Hasan and Parvez Hossain.

Saifuddin, who last played T20Is for Bangladesh in October 2022, has recovered from a back injury that sidelined him for several months. He impressed during the recent Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), taking 15 wickets in nine matches for Fortune Barishal, who won their maiden BPL title.

Tanzid, a left-handed opener, has earned his maiden T20I call-up after playing 15 ODIs since his debut last year. He had a decent BPL campaign but was not part of the T20Is against Sri Lanka last month.

Mustafizur Rahman and Shakib Al Hasan are notable absentees from the squad for the first three matches. Shakib is expected to return to Dhaka on April 30 and may play a Dhaka Premier League match before joining the squad for the remaining two matches. Mustafizur is set to arrive on May 2 after his IPL stint and will undergo a fitness assessment before being considered for the final two T20Is in Dhaka.

Anamul Haque, Taijul Islam, and Mohammad Naim have been left out from the squad that played T20Is against Sri Lanka, while Soumya Sarkar is still recovering from a knee injury.

The first three T20Is will be played in Chattogram on May 3, 5, and 7, before the action moves to Dhaka for the last two games on May 10 and 12.

Former Zimbabwe All-Rounder Guy Whittall Injured in Leopard Attack

Former Zimbabwe All-Rounder Guy Whittall Injured in Leopard Attack

Guy Whittall, the former Zimbabwean all-rounder, narrowly escaped a life-threatening encounter with a leopard earlier this week. The 51-year-old sustained severe injuries to his head and hand, necessitating immediate surgery.

Whittall, who represented Zimbabwe in 46 Tests and 147 ODIs between 1993 and 2003, currently operates a safari business with his family in Humani. According to his wife Hannah’s Facebook post, the incident occurred on Tuesday. Whittall was airlifted to Harare for urgent medical attention.

This is not the first time Whittall has had a close encounter with wildlife. Over a decade ago, an eight-foot, 165kg Nile crocodile entered his bedroom at the Humani game reserve and spent the night there.

Whittall’s injuries are reported to be stable, but he remains under observation. His family and friends have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers.

The incident highlights the inherent risks associated with living in close proximity to wildlife. Whittall’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of taking necessary precautions and respecting the boundaries of wild animals.

Zimbabwe Women Aim to Break World Cup Drought in Abu Dhabi Qualifier

Zimbabwe Women Aim to Break World Cup Drought in Abu Dhabi Qualifier

Josephine Nkomo’s heart sank as she watched her Zimbabwean team fall just four runs short of victory in the 2023 T20 World Cup Qualifier semi-final against Ireland. The defeat crushed their hopes of a first World Cup appearance, leaving Nkomo shattered.

Now, Zimbabwe has a chance to redeem themselves in the 2024 T20 World Cup Qualifier in Abu Dhabi. Nkomo and her teammates are determined to avoid the heartbreak of 2022 and secure a spot in the World Cup.

Zimbabwe’s recent victory at the Africa Games, where they defeated South Africa in a Super Over, has boosted their confidence. Nkomo, who hit the winning runs, has embraced a leadership role in crunch moments.

Her experience playing club cricket in Australia and England has enhanced her game awareness. Nkomo credits Elyse Villani, her former teammate, for sharing valuable knowledge and insights.

Zimbabwe’s women’s team recognizes the importance of their role in keeping cricket relevant in their country. With the men’s team failing to qualify for a World Cup, the women’s team has the opportunity to showcase their talent on a global stage.

Nkomo believes that qualifying for the World Cup would be a life-changing experience for the team. It would provide them with a platform to inspire young girls and demonstrate the strength of Zimbabwean cricket.

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