Bangladesh all out for 255, Zim need 174 to win first Test

Another dismal batting performance saw Bangladesh bowled out for 255 in their second innings of the first Test, setting Zimbabwe a target of 174 runs for victory at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium today.

Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzurabani was the wrecker-in-chief with 6-72, his third five-wicket haul in 10 Tests. He was largely benefitted by Bangladesh batters' wayward shot making that hastened the collapse.

Resuming Day 4 on 194-4 after rain delayed the start, Bangladesh were able to add just 61 runs to their overnight total before being all out shortly before the lunch break.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto top-scored with 60, while Jaker Ali Anik, who was the last batter out, made 58.

Shanto's injudicious shot on just the second ball of the day triggered the collapse. Bangladesh were aiming for a lead of over 250 runs, according to senior batter Mominul Haque, who spoke after Day 3's play.

Shanto attempted a premeditated pull shot against a short-pitched delivery well outside off, which led to his dismissal. His wicket came at a crucial time when Bangladesh needed him to take the game out of Zimbabwe's reach.

Shanto's innings included seven boundaries.

Just three overs later, Muzurabani extended Mehidy Hasan Miraz's lean patch with the willow, undoing him with an extra pace and bounce. He reacted late and got thick outside edge that went straight to gully fielder.

Jaker Ali played patiently to raise his fourth half-century in as many Tests from 106 balls by pulling Victor Nyauchu for a fine-leg boundary.

Left-arm spinner Wellington Masakadza who took 2-20, claimed the wicket of Hasan Mahmud and Khaled Ahmed in consecutive deliveries.

Muzurabani fittingly wrapped up Bangladesh's innings by dismissing Jaker Ali, that not only gave him his six-for but also made him the joint-fastest to 50 Test wickets for his country, reports BSS.

Bangladesh earlier were folded for 191 in its first innings. Zimbabwe replied with 273 to take an 82 runs lead.

Zimbabwe have not won a Test since 2021.