Zimbabwe Set Bangladesh 171-Run Target in First T20I

Zimbabwe have set Bangladesh a target of 171 runs in the opening match of the three-match T20 International series at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. After being asked to bat first by the visiting side, Zimbabwe posted 170 for six, with late contributions from Ryan Burl and Brad Evans helping them reach a competitive total.

Bangladesh captain won the toss and opted to field first on Wednesday (15 July 2026), hoping to make early inroads with their bowling attack. However, Zimbabwe’s opening pair provided an aggressive start, putting immediate pressure on the visitors.

Openers Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani added 36 runs within the first three overs. Zimbabwe continued their attacking approach during the powerplay, reaching 54 for one after six overs.

Marumani was the first batter to depart after scoring 14 runs from nine deliveries. However, Bennett kept the momentum going and produced the top score of the innings. The right-handed batter struck six boundaries and one six during his 30-ball knock of 44 runs before Bangladesh’s bowlers eventually removed him.

Bangladesh’s fast bowling attack gradually brought the hosts under control, with Nahid Rana emerging as the standout performer. The young pacer troubled Zimbabwe’s batters with his pace and accuracy, claiming four wickets while conceding only 26 runs.

Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Zimbabwe managed to maintain a strong scoring rate, largely due to a crucial late partnership between Ryan Burl and Brad Evans. The pair provided valuable runs in the final stages of the innings and ensured Zimbabwe crossed the 170-run mark.

Burl remained unbeaten on 30 from 25 balls, hitting two fours and one six. Evans played a quick finishing role, scoring an unbeaten 19 from just 10 deliveries with the help of four boundaries.

The duo added 31 runs from only 15 balls in an unbeaten seventh-wicket partnership, giving Zimbabwe the final boost they needed before the innings ended.

For Bangladesh, Nahid Rana was the most successful bowler, taking four wickets. Mohammad Saif Uddin also made an impact by claiming two wickets, but Zimbabwe’s late acceleration helped them post a challenging total.

Zimbabwe innings summary

Bangladesh now face the task of chasing 171 runs to take an early lead in the series. With Zimbabwe’s pace attack expected to challenge the visitors, Bangladesh’s top-order batters will need a composed start to keep their hopes alive in the opening encounter.