England vs Zimbabwe, One-Off Test 2025: In a dominant display of Test cricket, England wrapped up a thumping victory over Zimbabwe by an innings and 45 runs on Day 3 of the one-off Test match held at Trent Bridge. Despite a spirited resistance from Zimbabwe’s batters, England’s imposing first-innings total and Shoaib Bashir’s magical spell proved too much for the visitors, sealing a 1-0 series win for Ben Stokes’ men.
After being put into bat by Zimbabwe, England piled on a mammoth 565/6 declared in their first innings. Ollie Pope led the charge with a breathtaking 171 off just 166 balls, including 21 fours and 2 sixes. His innings was both stylish and brutal, perfectly complemented by Ben Duckett, who scored a rapid 140 off 134 deliveries. Together, the duo ensured England dictated terms from the outset.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers toiled hard but found little success on a docile batting surface. Blessing Muzarabani emerged as the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 wickets for 143 runs in his 24.3 overs, while Wesley Madhevere and Victor Nyauchi chipped in with a wicket each.
In reply, Zimbabwe showed promise in their first innings, reaching 265, thanks largely to a sensational knock from young Brian Bennett. The 21-year-old scored 139 off 143 balls, showing composure and flair against England’s pace and spin attack. However, wickets fell at regular intervals around him. Shoaib Bashir was the destroyer-in-chief with figures of 3/62, while captain Ben Stokes also chipped in with two quick wickets.
Following on, Zimbabwe once again showed resilience with the bat. Veteran Sean Williams played a counterattacking innings of 88 from 82 balls, supported well by Sikandar Raza, who scored a fluent 60 off 68. But Shoaib Bashir returned to torment the visitors once again, this time claiming a stunning 6/81 in 18 overs, bringing his match tally to 9 wickets for 143 runs.
Zimbabwe’s second innings ended at 255, falling short by 45 runs to make England bat again. The innings defeat highlighted the gulf between the two sides, especially in the bowling department.
For his brilliant performance, Shoaib Bashir was rightfully adjudged the Player of the Match. His 9-wicket haul not only broke the back of Zimbabwe’s resistance but also announced his arrival as a potent force in England’s spin arsenal.
This comprehensive win marks a successful outing for England as they continue to fine-tune their red-ball setup. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, will need to reassess their Test strategy and batting depth moving forward.
Match Summary:
- Venue: Trent Bridge, Nottingham
- Toss: Zimbabwe won and elected to bowl
- England 1st Innings: 565/6d (Ollie Pope 171, Ben Duckett 140; Muzarabani 3/143)
- Zimbabwe 1st Innings: 265 (Brian Bennett 139; Bashir 3/62)
- Zimbabwe 2nd Innings: 255 (Sean Williams 88, Sikandar Raza 60; Bashir 6/81)
- Result: England won by an innings and 45 runs
- Player of the Match: Shoaib Bashir (ENG) – 3/62 & 6/81
