England’s one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge delivered a compelling mix of dominance and defiance. While England wrapped up an emphatic innings-and-45-run victory inside three days, the match will be remembered as much for Shoaib Bashir’s career-best performance as for Zimbabwe’s spirited resistance, led by Sean Williams’ aggressive 88.
England’s Batting Sets the Stage
England’s top order set the tone with a mammoth first-innings total of 565 for 6 declared. The hosts’ batting display featured:
- Ollie Pope’s fluent 171
- Ben Duckett’s rapid 140
- Zak Crawley’s solid 124
This trio’s centuries ensured Zimbabwe faced an uphill battle from the outset, especially after losing key bowler Richard Ngarava to injury on Day 1.
Zimbabwe’s Resistance: Bennett and Williams Shine
Despite the daunting target, Zimbabwe showed remarkable grit. Opener Brian Bennett smashed his nation’s fastest Test century, racing to 139 off just 97 balls and helping Zimbabwe post 265 in their first innings.
Following on, Zimbabwe found hope in Sean Williams. The left-hander counterattacked with a brisk 88 off 82 balls, forging a 122-run partnership with Ben Curran (37). Williams’ innings, marked by bold stroke play and determination, briefly put England’s bowlers on the back foot.
Sikandar Raza added a quick-fire 60, further delaying England’s victory.
Zimbabwe’s fightback was all the more impressive given their depleted bowling resources and the pressure of following on.
Shoaib Bashir’s Match-Winning Spell
The turning point came courtesy of Shoaib Bashir. The 21-year-old off-spinner delivered a masterclass in control and variation:
Second innings figures: 6 for 81
Match haul: 9 for 143—his best in Test cricket to date
Bashir’s spell broke Zimbabwe’s resistance, including the pivotal wicket of Sean Williams on a marginal LBW decision just before lunch on Day 3. He then ran through the lower order, sealing the win and earning widespread praise for his maturity and skill.
“Bashir’s control and guile were evident as he wrapped up Zimbabwe’s second innings for 255, sealing England’s victory and earning widespread praise for his maturity and skill.”
Key Takeaways from the Match
England’s dominance: Batting depth and Bashir’s spin proved decisive.
Zimbabwe’s spirit: Bennett’s century and Williams’ 88 highlighted their fight.
Injuries matter: Zimbabwe’s bowling was hampered by Ngarava’s early exit.
Bashir’s rise: At just 21, Bashir became the youngest England bowler to 50 Test wickets and claimed his fourth five-wicket haul in seven matches.
What’s Next?
England: This win serves as a perfect dress rehearsal ahead of their five-Test series against India, with Bashir’s emergence adding a new dimension to their attack.
Zimbabwe: The team will regroup for a two-Test home series against South Africa, buoyed by individual performances and the promise of a brighter future.
FAQs: England vs Zimbabwe One-Off Test 2025
1. Who was the player of the match in the England vs Zimbabwe Test?
Shoaib Bashir was the standout performer, taking 9 wickets in the match, including 6 in the second innings.
2. How did Sean Williams perform in the Test?
Sean Williams led Zimbabwe’s resistance with a fighting 88 off 82 balls in the second innings, showcasing his attacking flair.
3. What was significant about Brian Bennett’s century?
Brian Bennett scored Zimbabwe’s fastest Test century, reaching three figures off just 97 balls in the first innings.
4. Why was Zimbabwe’s bowling attack weakened?
Fast bowler Richard Ngarava suffered a back spasm on Day 1 and could not bowl further, leaving Zimbabwe short-handed.
5. What’s next for England and Zimbabwe after this Test?
England will face India in a five-Test series starting June 20, while Zimbabwe will play a two-Test series at home against South Africa.
Conclusion
Shoaib Bashir’s sensational nine-wicket haul powered England to a dominant innings win over Zimbabwe, but the visitors left Trent Bridge with heads held high thanks to the fighting efforts of Sean Williams and Brian Bennett. As England gears up for their blockbuster summer against India, Zimbabwe’s spirited display offers hope for their upcoming challenges and a reminder of the enduring appeal of Test cricket.