Zimbabwe take control of Sylhet Test against Bangladesh

Agency:

Zimbabwe took control on Day 1 of the first Test against Bangladesh as they posted 67 runs after bowling out the hosts for just 191 at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

The visitors’ opening pair of Brian Bennett, unbeaten on 40 off 37 balls, and Ben Curran (17) took the attack to Bangladesh’s bowlers in the 14.1 overs they faced before bad light stopped play.
Earlier, Bangladesh’s innings began with early setbacks after choosing to bat first as the Tigers lost both openers within the first 31 runs. Shadman Islam was dismissed for 12, while Mahmudul Hasan Joy managed 14 before both fell to Victor Nyauchi.

Coming in at No. 3, Mominul Haque was handed an early reprieve off Blessing Muzarabani, but went on to play a measured knock of 56 off 105 deliveries before being dismissed by Wellington Masakadza.

Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto once again failed to convert his start, getting out for 40 off 69 balls after settling in. Rain interruptions and overcast skies made batting tougher, and Bangladesh lost wickets at regular intervals.

Veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim’s poor form continued as he was dismissed for just 4, possibly marking the beginning of the end of his illustrious career. Mehidy Hasan Miraz (1) and Taijul Islam (3) also offered little resistance.

In a worrying statistic, Jaker Ali Anik emerged as the third-highest scorer with just 28 runs. He and Nahid Rana were the final wickets to fall, as Wesley Madhevere wrapped up the innings in the 60th over.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers shared the spoils impressively. Blessing Muzarabani and Wellington Masakadza took three wickets each, while Victor Nyauchi and Wesley Madhevere claimed two apiece, putting the visitors firmly in control after Day 1.

Bangladesh’s relatively inexperienced pace attack of Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana and Khalid Rana couldn’t find their lines against Bennett, who hit six fours.

Trailing only by 124 runs, Zimbabwe have a rare opportunity to set a formidable first innings total with the pitch expected to be better for the batters on the second day.