West Indies won the first test by 117 runs against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo courtesy a five-wicket haul in the first innings and four wickets in the second innings by Devendra Bishoo. Bishoo was also adjudged the man of the match. Zimbabwe suffered another batting collapse in the second innings as they lost their last six wickets for just 97 runs. Zimbabwe was set a target of 434 with two more days play left, but they were bowled out for 316 in the second innings.
West Indies was bowled out for a mere 219 in the first innings, but did make an exceptional comeback by bowling the Zimbabweans for just 159, courtesy a five-wicket haul by Devendra Bishoo. West Indies then scored 373 in the second innings setting Zimbabwe a daunting target of 434 with two days play left. Bishoo again caused havoc in the second innings as he picked up four wickets in the second innings taking his tally to nine wickets in the match. Zimbabwe was bowled out for 316 in the second innings.
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Bishoo after the match admitted that he knew that he would play a big part in the match for the Windies:
“After the first day, after seeing how Zimbabwe bowled, I knew I would have a big part to play in the Test match. But it was important to be patient on this pitch, and stick to a plan.”
The batsmen made a solid comeback in the second innings as they scored 373 courtesy an 86 runs innings by Kraigg Braithwaite and an important 95 by Roston Chase down the order.
“Yeah, we know the capability of batsmen in our team. We have Kraigg Brathwaite, who had a good series in England, Shai Hope had a good series in England, Roston Chase with runs in his last game against Zimbabwe A. Everyone believed in one another, and that’s one of the most important things about this group. The team togetherness is very good. We’re very comfortable each other, we believe in each other, and I have no complaints.”
The second and final Test of the series will be played at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Sunday.