Bangladesh Takes Control as Zimbabwe Collapses in Second Test

CHITTAGONG: On the first day of the second Test at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Bangladesh gained a significant advantage thanks to left-arm spinner Taijul Islam, whose impressive five-wicket haul restricted Zimbabwe to 227/9.

After choosing to bat, Zimbabwe’s innings began steadily, with openers Brian Bennett and Ben Curran each contributing 21 runs. However, their progress was cut short when they were dismissed in quick succession by Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Taijul Islam.

Following these early setbacks, Nick Welch, a promising top-order batsman, and experienced all-rounder Sean Williams stabilized the innings, forging a solid 90-run partnership for the third wicket.

Their promising partnership was unexpectedly broken when Welch had to retire hurt shortly after the tea interval.

Subsequently, Nayeem Hussain’s double strike saw the dismissals of Zimbabwe’s captain, Craig Ervine (5), and the well-set Williams within just 11 balls, reducing their score to 178/4.

Williams emerged as Zimbabwe’s leading scorer, posting 67 runs off 166 deliveries, which included seven boundaries and a six.

Middle-order batsman Wessly Madhevere and wicketkeeper Tafadzwa Tsiga then combined for a 22-run partnership, guiding Zimbabwe past the 200-run mark.

The dismissal of Madhevere, who scored 15 off 32 balls before falling to Islam, triggered a dramatic collapse. Zimbabwe lost three additional wickets in a mere six overs, adding only 16 runs to their total.

This lower-order collapse prompted Welch to return to the crease, but his second stay was brief, lasting only 23 balls before he too was dismissed by Islam.

Welch made a valuable contribution to Zimbabwe’s total, scoring 54 runs off 133 deliveries, including three fours and two sixes.

At the close of the eventful first day, Zimbabwe stood at 227/9, with Tsiga and Blessing Muzarabani at the crease.

Taijul Islam was the most successful bowler for Bangladesh, claiming five wickets for 60 runs in his 27 overs, while Nayeem took two wickets.