Bangladesh’s innings victory over Zimbabwe
In a stunning display of resilience, Bangladesh avenged their first Test defeat to Zimbabwe with a commanding innings-and-106-run victory in the second Test in Chattogram.
The win, sealed in just three days at the Bir Shrestha Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, leveled the two-match series at 1-1 and snapped Bangladesh’s six-match home Test losing streak.
A tale of redemption
After a hard-fought three-wicket loss in Sylhet, the Tigers faced heavy criticism. Captain Nazmul Hossain Shanto’s squad responded emphatically, dominating Zimbabwe from start to finish in Chattogram. The victory marked Bangladesh’s first Test win against Zimbabwe in over six years, showcasing their batting depth and bowling prowess.
Bangladesh’s batting masterclass
Zimbabwe posted 227 in their first innings, but Bangladesh replied with a formidable 444 in 129.2 overs, driven by centuries from Sadman Islam (120) and Mehedi Hasan Miraz (104). The pair’s efforts, coupled with a gritty 41 from Tanjim Hasan Shakib, secured a 217-run lead.
The third day began with Bangladesh at 291/7, but rain briefly interrupted play after 2.4 overs. Once resumed, Miraz and Taijul Islam (20) forged a 63-run eighth-wicket stand. A 96-run ninth-wicket partnership between Miraz and Shakib pushed Bangladesh past 400. Miraz’s century, his second in Tests and both scored in Chattogram, was a highlight. He fell stumped for 104, while Zimbabwe’s debutant spinner Vincent Masekesa claimed 5/115.
Bowling brilliance seals the deal
Zimbabwe’s second innings collapsed to 111 in 46.2 overs, with Mehedi Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam leading the charge. Taijul struck early, dismissing Brian Bennett (0) and Nicholas Welch (0) in the seventh over, leaving Zimbabwe reeling at 8/2. Sadman Islam’s catch at second slip removed Shaun Williams (7), and a 47-run stand between Craig Ervine (25) and Ben Curran offered brief resistance.
Miraz then took over, claiming Ervine and Wesley Madhevere (0) in the 30th over, followed by Tafadzwa Tsiga (0) in the next. His sharp turn accounted for Wellington Masakadza (10) and Ben Curran (46), Zimbabwe’s last hope. With nine wickets down, the umpires extended play, and Mominul Haque’s direct-hit run-out of Vincent Masekesa ended the innings. Miraz finished with 5/32, Taijul took 3/42, and Naeem Hasan grabbed one wicket.
Key performers
Mehedi Hasan Miraz: A century (104) and 5/32 made him the match’s standout, earning his second Test ton and a five-wicket haul.
Sadman Islam: His 120 anchored Bangladesh’s first innings.
Taijul Islam: Early breakthroughs with 3/42 dismantled Zimbabwe’s top order.
Vincent Masekesa: Zimbabwe’s debutant spinner took 5/115 but couldn’t stem Bangladesh’s dominance.
Looking ahead
The emphatic win restores confidence in Bangladesh’s Test squad, particularly at home. For Zimbabwe, the defeat highlights the need for consistency against stronger sides. As both teams reflect on a hard-fought series, Bangladesh’s resurgence in Chattogram will be remembered as a testament to their fighting spirit.