DHAKA – In a gripping T20I contest at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh narrowly edged out Zimbabwe by 5 runs. The match, part of Zimbabwe’s 2024 tour, showcased a roller-coaster of emotions, with both teams fighting tooth and nail until the final over.
Tanzid and Soumya Spark Bangladesh’s Innings
Zimbabwe’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss seemed promising initially. However, Bangladesh’s openers, Tanzid Hasan and Soumya Sarkar, quickly seized control. Their blistering 101-run partnership in just 68 balls laid the foundation for a competitive total. Tanzid’s elegant 52 runs, coupled with Soumya’s aggressive 41, put the Zimbabwean bowlers on the back foot.
Despite the openers’ departure, Bangladesh’s middle order failed to capitalize, losing wickets in quick succession. A brief cameo from Towhid Hridoy (12 runs) was the only notable contribution as the hosts stumbled to 143 all out in 19.5 overs.
Zimbabwe’s Disciplined Bowling Performance
Zimbabwe’s bowlers, particularly Luke Jongwe and Brian Bennett, were instrumental in restricting Bangladesh’s total. Both bowlers claimed two wickets each, while Raza, Muzarabani, and Ngarava picked up a wicket apiece. Their disciplined line and length, along with variations in pace, kept the Bangladeshi batsmen guessing.
Zimbabwe’s Chase Falters Despite Promising Start
Chasing a seemingly manageable 144 for victory, Zimbabwe’s innings started on a sour note, losing Brian Bennett early. However, Tadiwanashe Marumani (14 runs) and Sikandar Raza (17 runs) steadied the ship with a 28-run stand.
The chase began to unravel as wickets fell at regular intervals. Johnathan Campbell’s 31 runs and minor contributions from other batsmen kept Zimbabwe in the hunt, but the required run rate kept climbing. A late surge from Wellington Masakadza (19 runs) and Faraz Akram (11 runs) wasn’t enough as Zimbabwe fell agonizingly short, finishing on 138 all out.
Bangladesh’s Bowling Heroics
Bangladesh’s bowlers, led by the experienced Shakib Al Hasan, produced a match-winning performance. Shakib’s four-wicket haul dismantled Zimbabwe’s middle order and stifled their chase. Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman complemented Shakib’s efforts with two and three wickets respectively, ensuring Bangladesh’s triumph.
A Nail-biting Finish
The match went down to the wire, with Zimbabwe needing 11 runs off the final over. However, Mustafizur held his nerve, conceding just five runs and claiming the final wicket to seal the win for Bangladesh. The tension in the stadium was palpable, with both sets of fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Key Takeaways
- Tanzid and Soumya’s Partnership: Their century stand provided the platform for Bangladesh to post a competitive total.
- Zimbabwe’s Bowling Discipline: The bowlers restricted Bangladesh’s batsmen and kept their team in the game.
- Shakib’s Masterclass: His four-wicket haul proved to be the turning point in the match.
- A Thriller in Dhaka: The match was a testament to the exciting and unpredictable nature of T20 cricket.
Key Statistics:
- Bangladesh: 143 all out (19.5 overs)
- Zimbabwe: 138 all out (19.4 overs)
- Player of the Match: Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh)
Series Continues
This thrilling victory gives Bangladesh a 4-0 lead in the series. Cricket fans can look forward to more intense battles as the tour progresses, with Zimbabwe eager to bounce back.