Chattogram, April 29, 2025 – At the close of play on Day 2 of the second Test between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, the hosts secured a 64-run first-innings lead at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium.
The contest remains delicately balanced with three full days of action remaining.
After dismissing Zimbabwe for 227 early in the morning session, Bangladesh began their reply with a solid start from openers Shadman Islam and Anamul Haque. Despite a nervy beginning, the pair settled in and constructed a 118-run opening partnership. Shadman capitalized on the favorable batting conditions and reached a well-deserved century, keeping Bangladesh in a dominant position during the afternoon.
However, Zimbabwe showed resilience. The debutant leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa turned the tide with crucial breakthroughs in the final session. He removed Najmul Hossain Shanto and then played a part in Mushfiqur Rahim’s run-out, a moment that halted Bangladesh’s momentum. From 259/3, the Tigers suddenly found themselves in a mini-collapse, giving Zimbabwe hope going into Day 3.
Earlier, Taijul Islam was the standout performer for Bangladesh with the ball. The left-arm spinner ripped through the Zimbabwe batting order, finishing with impressive figures of 6 wickets. It took just one delivery on the morning of Day 2 to clean up the last Zimbabwe batter, allowing the hosts to seize the early advantage.
Though Bangladesh have the lead, they will be cautious heading into the so-called “moving day” of the Test match. A lot will depend on how Mehidy Hasan and the lower order bat, with the home side eyeing a 100-run lead. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe will aim to wrap up the remaining wickets quickly and launch a strong second-innings response to remain in contention.
The third day promises to be crucial in shaping the outcome of this closely fought Test match between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. Play resumes at 4:00 AM GMT. Stay tuned for what could be the turning point of the series.