England’s opening pair, Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, etched their names into the record books on May 22, 2025, during the one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, Nottingham. The duo stitched together an unbeaten 159-run opening stand — the highest-ever partnership for England against Zimbabwe in Test cricket, for any wicket.
This Test marks a historic occasion as Zimbabwe returned to English shores for a red-ball contest after years, with the match being played in a special four-day format. Zimbabwe won the toss and opted to bowl first, hoping to challenge England early. However, England stuck to their aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach — and it paid off.
Record-Breaking Stand
Crawley and Duckett took full advantage of a docile pitch and an inexperienced Zimbabwe bowling attack. Their partnership was built on crisp stroke play, sharp running between the wickets, and controlled aggression. They surpassed England’s previous best against Zimbabwe — a 149-run stand — achieved twice in the early 2000s.
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Highest Partnerships for England vs Zimbabwe (All Wickets – Tests):
- Zak Crawley & Ben Duckett – 159* for the 1st wicket, Nottingham, 2025
- Graeme Hick & Alec Stewart – 149 for the 4th wicket, Lord’s, 2000
- Anthony McGrath & Alec Stewart – 149 for the 6th wicket, Chester-le-Street, 2003
- John Crawley & Nasser Hussain – 148 for the 5th wicket, Bulawayo, 1996
- Nick Knight & Alec Stewart – 137 for the 2nd wicket, Bulawayo, 1996
What sets Crawley and Duckett’s effort apart is that it came at the top of the order — and remained unbroken. Duckett has already reached his century, while Crawley is steadily approaching one of his own.
A Historic Four-Day Test
This match is also notable for its format. Unlike the traditional five-day structure, England and Zimbabwe are playing under a four-day format — part of an ICC initiative aimed at increasing accessibility and improving scheduling flexibility. The match allows 98 overs per day, has a reduced follow-on margin of 150 runs, and includes the option of a second new ball after 80 overs. Each day lasts six and a half hours.
As of now, England are firmly in control — and the Crawley-Duckett stand has set the tone for what could be a memorable match in more ways than one.
