Innocent Kaia struck a maiden test century as Zimbabwe retained a firm grip on Monday in a one-off international against Bangladesh in Harare.
His 140 runs off 227 balls propelled the home team to 410 all out on the second day at Harare Sports Club.
Dismissed for 140 in their first innings on Sunday, Bangladesh were 33-1 at the close of play to trail by 230 runs.
Stumps
— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) June 29, 2026
Bangladesh close their second innings on Day 2 on 40/1, still trailing Zimbabwe by 230 runs.
Match Details 👉 https://t.co/rhKIa0vuHM#ZIMvBAN #ExperienceZimbabwe pic.twitter.com/JVZ2uSaxqt
Playing only his fifth test innings, 33-year-old right-hand batter Kaia had scored 172 runs in his previous four knocks at an average of 43.
His impressive stand, which included 17 fours, ended when he tried a flick shot off a Taijul Islam delivery only to edge the ball to Shadman Islam at silly mid-off.
A magnificent innings comes to an end 👏🏾
— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) June 29, 2026
Innocent Kaia dismissed for 140 #ZIMvBAN #ExperienceZimbabwe pic.twitter.com/krVK5vmfOX
Kaia was not alone in tormenting the Bangladeshi bowlers as Wessly Madhevere (77 not out), Craig Ervine (60) and Brian Bennett (59) all claimed half centuries.
If the tourists thought the dismissal of Kaia with Zimbabwe 279-4 would bring relief to their bowlers, they were sadly mistaken.
Entering as the seventh batter, Madhevere slammed eight fours in his unbeaten 166-minute stay at the crease.
Orthodox left-arm spin bowler Taijul Islam did take seven wickets for Bangladesh, but they came at the huge cost of 138 runs.
Zimbabwe are seeking a second victory in three tests against Bangladesh after winning and losing in a two-match series in the south Asian country last year.