Sports Reporter
NOTTINGHAM, England – England seized control of the first Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge on Friday, enforcing the follow-on after a dominant display highlighted by Ben Stokes’ impactful return and a historic century from Zimbabwe’s Brian Bennett. The tourists, playing their first Test in England in 22 years, crumbled to 265 all out, trailing England’s mammoth first-innings 565-6 declared by 300 runs.
Stokes, making his Test comeback after hamstring surgery, ignited Zimbabwe’s collapse with two quick wickets before tea, leaving the tourists reeling at 199-5.
“It felt great to be back and contributing straightaway,” Stokes said.
“We knew we had to keep applying pressure, and the lads responded brilliantly.”
Zimbabwe had shown resilience at 187-3, but Stokes removed Sikandar Raza (7) and Wessly Madhevere (0) in a fiery spell. The spotlight, however, shifted to 24-year-old Brian Bennett, who smashed a record 139 off 143 balls, including 26 fours. His 97-ball century eclipsed Sean Williams’ 106-ball mark set in 2016, becoming the fastest Test ton by a Zimbabwean.
“It’s a dream to score a century here, especially in such a historic Test for us,” Bennett said.
“I rode my luck, but to do it against this attack is something I’ll never forget.”
Bennett survived a dropped catch by Joe Root on 89 and a no-ball reprieve off Josh Tongue, who overstepped during a dismissed catch. However, Tongue later redeemed himself, with Ollie Pope snaring Bennett at short leg.
“Brian’s innings was exceptional,” Zimbabwe coach Dave Houghton remarked.
“But we need to learn from these moments and show more fight.”
Spinner Shoaib Bashir (3-77) and Stokes (2-31) spearheaded England’s attack, while Gus Atkinson and Tongue chipped in. Zimbabwe’s tail folded swiftly, with Richard Ngarava absent injured.
Earlier, England declared at 565-6, fueled by centuries from Ollie Pope (169), Zak Crawley (124), and Ben Duckett (140). Harry Brook’s blistering 58 off 50 balls, including three sixes, compounded Zimbabwe’s woes.
“The batters set the tone,” Stokes said.
“When you post 500, you’re always in the driving seat.”
With Zimbabwe 35-0 in their second innings at stumps, England remains poised for victory. Yet, Bennett’s heroics offered a glimmer of pride for the visitors.
“We’ll come back stronger,” Bennett vowed.
“This is just the start for us.”
As day three looms, England eyes a swift conclusion, while Zimbabwe seeks resilience in a match already etched with milestones and drama.
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