Bangladesh asserted dominance on Day 2 of the second Test against Zimbabwe, closing the day at 291/7 and taking a vital 64-run lead in Chattogram. After bowling out Zimbabwe for 227 earlier in the match, the hosts built a solid response powered by a brilliant century from opener Shadman Islam, who scored a commanding 120 off 181 deliveries, including 16 boundaries and a six. His composed innings laid the foundation for Bangladesh’s first innings, countering a disciplined but inconsistent Zimbabwean bowling attack.
Zimbabwe had won the toss and opted to bat first on Day 1 at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, but failed to capitalize fully. Despite a gritty 67 from Sean Williams and a well-crafted 54 from Nick Welch, their innings folded for 227 in 90.1 overs, thanks to a destructive bowling display by Taijul Islam. The left-arm spinner was sensational, picking up six wickets for just 60 runs in a long spell that completely broke Zimbabwe’s backbone. He was well supported by Nayeem Hasan, who claimed two wickets, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib, who chipped in with one.
In reply, Bangladesh lost Anamul Haque for 39 after an 118-run opening stand, but continued to stay ahead with key contributions from Mominul Haque (33), Mushfiqur Rahim (40), and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto (23). However, Zimbabwe managed to pull things back slightly in the final session with some timely breakthroughs—most notably from Vincent Masekesa, who finished with 3 wickets for 44 runs. Brian Bennett and Muzarabani also picked a wicket each, while a run-out and sharp fielding added pressure on the middle order. By stumps, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (16*) and Taijul Islam (5*) were at the crease, guiding Bangladesh to 291/7 after 87 overs.
With Bangladesh now holding a lead of 64 runs and three wickets in hand, Day 3 is set to be crucial. The hosts will look to extend their lead beyond 100 and put Zimbabwe under pressure in the second innings. The pitch is showing signs of aiding spin, and with Taijul Islam in top form, Zimbabwe’s batters will face an uphill battle to stay in the contest.
