Nihad Rana Shatters Records with Historic Six-Wicket Haul in ODI Against Zimbabwe
Nihad Rana's Remarkable Performance
Bangladesh's cricket sensation, Nihad Rana, has solidified his status as one of the premier young fast bowlers globally. He achieved a significant milestone by claiming his first six-wicket haul in One Day Internationals (ODIs) during the series opener against Zimbabwe on July 6 at Harare Sports Club. The talented pacer bowled his full quota of 10 overs, capturing six wickets while conceding only 21 runs, leading to Zimbabwe's collapse for a mere 141 runs. This performance marked Rana's third five-wicket haul, as he entered the game as a first-change bowler, dismissing key players including Innocent Kaia and Sikandar Raza.
Historic Bowling Figures Set by Rana
Nihad Rana Creates History
Rana has etched his name in the record books by achieving the best bowling figures by any bowler in an ODI match on Zimbabwean soil against the home team. He surpassed a long-standing record held by former West Indies bowler Fidel Edwards for 23 years.
| Player | Figures | Team | Opponent | Venue | Year |
| Nihad Rana | 6-21 | Bangladesh | Zimbabwe | Harare | 2026 |
| Fidel Edwards | 6-22 | West Indies | Zimbabwe | Harare | 2003 |
| Yasir Shah | 6-26 | Pakistan | Zimbabwe | Harare | 2015 |
| Ajantha Mendis | 6-29 | Sri Lanka | Zimbabwe | Harare | 2008 |
| Joshua Little | 6-36 | Ireland | Zimbabwe | Harare | 2023 |
| Amit Mishra | 6-48 | India | Zimbabwe | Bulawayo | 2013 |
Rana's figures are now the second-best in ODIs on Zimbabwean soil, trailing only Shane Bond's 6-19 against India in 2005 at Bulawayo. Additionally, these figures represent the best ever recorded at the renowned Harare Sports Club. In the context of ODI cricket against Zimbabwe, Rana's performance ranks third, following Sri Lanka's Chaminda Vaas and Wanindu Hasaranga.
Bangladesh's New Bowling Record Holder
Nihad Rana Sets All-Time Bangladesh Record
In a remarkable achievement, Rana has surpassed former captain Mashrafe Mortaza to claim the record for the best bowling figures by a Bangladeshi bowler in ODIs. This record had stood for two decades.
Best Bowling Figures By A Bangladesh Bowler In ODIs| Player | Figures | Opponent | Ground | Year |
| Nahid Rana | 6-21 | Zimbabwe | Harare | 2026 |
| Mashrafe Mortaza | 6-26 | Kenya | Nairobi | 2006 |
| Rubel Hossain | 6-26 | New Zealand | Mirpur | 2013 |
| Rishad Hossain | 6-35 | West Indies | Mirpur | 2025 |
| Mustafizur Rahman | 6-43 | India | Mirpur | 2015 |
Having played 14 ODIs, Rana has taken 31 wickets, including three five-wicket hauls, with this latest performance marking his career-best.