Despite the pitch being favorable to batsmen, Zimbabwe faced significant challenges as Bangladesh secured a 105-run consolation victory in the third and final one-day international on Wednesday. Although Zimbabwe had already sealed the series by winning the first two games, they faltered by being bowled out for 151 in 32.2 overs while chasing Bangladesh’s total of 256-9 at Harare Sports Club.
Bangladesh’s innings was propelled by opener Anamul Haque, who scored 76 from 71 balls, and No. 6 batsman Afif Hossain, who remained unbeaten with 85 runs from 81 balls. Despite the batting-friendly nature of the pitch, Zimbabwe struggled right from the start, losing wickets in the first and second overs and suffering two more setbacks in the sixth over, reducing them to a precarious position of 18-4.
Even though Zimbabwe’s last two batters, Richard Ngarava (34 not out) and Victor Nyauchi (26), put up a spirited 68-run stand – the second-best partnership of the match – the late surge was entertaining but insufficient as Zimbabwe fell short, reaching 151.
While Bangladesh’s win in the final ODI marked a consolation victory, Zimbabwe’s overall performance in the series was commendable. Under the guidance of new coach Dave Houghton, who took charge after Zimbabwe’s six consecutive losses at home against Afghanistan in June, Zimbabwe secured its first ODI series win against a fellow top-tier team since 2017. Their notable achievements also included chasing down 291 in the second ODI against Bangladesh and winning the T20 series 2-1, marking their first-ever 20-over series victory against a top-tier team.
