Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe: The first Test between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium has entered a critical phase, with Bangladesh holding a firm grip after Day 3. Despite rain interruptions, the hosts managed to build a significant 112-run lead, ending the day at 194/4 in their second innings. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto led from the front with an unbeaten 60, showcasing grit and resilience, while wicketkeeper Zakir Ali provided solid support with 21*.
Day 3 saw delayed sessions due to rain, but Bangladesh continued their slow and steady climb, aiming to set Zimbabwe a challenging target. The day started with Bangladesh trailing by 82 runs after a gritty bowling effort earlier in the match, and openers walked in with a cautious approach. However, early trouble surfaced when opener Shadman Islam fell cheaply for 4 to Blessing Muzarabani, who continued his fine form from the first innings.
Mahamudul Hasan Joy and Mominul Haque attempted to stabilize the innings with some well-judged shots, but Zimbabwe’s disciplined bowling ensured neither could convert their starts into big scores. Joy fell for 33, while Mominul missed his half-century by just three runs, dismissed for 47 by Victor Nyauchi.
With wickets falling at intervals, it was the ever-calm Shanto who anchored the innings. His 60* so far has come off 126 balls and features five crisp boundaries, reflecting a calculated effort rather than flamboyance. Alongside him, Zakir Ali ensured no further damage, and the duo’s unbeaten 39-run partnership has been key to Bangladesh stretching their lead past 100.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers toiled hard on a pitch that’s beginning to show variable bounce. Muzarabani was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 wickets for 39 runs, dismissing Shadman, Mahmudul, and the experienced Mushfiqur Rahim. Victor Nyauchi chipped in with one wicket, removing Mominul just when he looked set for a big score.
Though Zimbabwe’s bowlers maintained a decent line and length, they struggled to break through Bangladesh’s middle order in the latter part of the day, especially under overcast skies and slightly damp conditions due to the earlier rain.
As the game heads into Day 4, all eyes will be on Bangladesh’s approach. Will they accelerate and set a target quickly, or continue building patiently to bat Zimbabwe out of the match? On the other hand, Zimbabwe will hope for early breakthroughs to keep the chase manageable on a pitch that is expected to deteriorate further.
The Sylhet Test promises an intriguing finish, weather permitting, and with two days remaining, it’s still all to play for.
