ZIM vs SA 2025: Brian Bennett ruled out of Bulawayo Test due to concussion

Zimbabwe opener Brian Bennett has been ruled out of the remainder of the ongoing first Test against South Africa at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo due to a mild concussion. The 21-year-old was hit on the helmet by a bouncer from South African pacer Kwena Maphaka on Day 2 of the Test, leading to his withdrawal, following the concussion protocols.

Bennett, who was batting on 19 off 25 balls, attempted a pull shot off Maphaka in the sixth over. Unfortunately, the delivery hit him on the helmet via the top edge. Although he initially passed the on-field concussion test and resumed batting, he appeared uneasy at the crease and decided to retire hurt after facing just three more deliveries from debutant Codi Yusuf in the following over. Later, Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed the diagnosis of a mild concussion and stated that Bennett would not take any further part in the ongoing match.

"Zimbabwe opener Brian Bennett will play no further part in the ongoing Test match against South Africa at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo after being diagnosed with a mild concussion. As per concussion protocols, he will take no further part in the match. Prince Masvaure has been named as his replacement, making his 10th appearance in Test cricket," the release stated.

Prince Masvaure called in as replacement

Following the ICC’s concussion substitute rules, Prince Masvaure was announced as Bennett’s replacement. The 36-year-old left-hander is set to make his 10th Test appearance. Masvaure last played a Test against Ireland in July 2024, where he made a half-century in the first innings. His recent domestic form has been solid, with 165 runs in five innings at an average of 41.25 in the 2024–25 Logan Cup, including a best of 50 not out.

South Africa had earlier declared their first innings at 418/9, courtesy of centuries from Lhuan-Dre Pretorius and Corbin Bosch. In reply, Zimbabwe’s innings got off to an underwhelming start, losing openers Takudzwanashe Kaitano for a duck and Nick Welch for four inside the first five overs. However, senior batters Sean Williams (45*) and Craig Ervine (24*) provided some fight before lunch, guiding Zimbabwe to 94/3.