CHATTOGRAM: Bangladesh spin maestro Taijul Islam was in top form on Monday, bagging his 16th five-wicket haul in Test cricket to put the hosts in control at the end of Day 1 of the second Test against Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe, choosing to bat first after winning the toss, ended the day on 227-9 — a total that would’ve looked much worse if not for gritty half-centuries from Nick Welch and Sean Williams, and some late resistance from the tail.
Debutant Tanzim Hasan Sakib opened the account for Bangladesh, dismissing Brian Bennett with an outside edge caught behind. It didn’t take long for Taijul to make his mark, striking with just the second delivery of his spell to bowl out Ben Curran, who chopped one onto his stumps after a patient 21 off 50 balls.
The Welch-Williams partnership looked promising as they steadied the innings for Zimbabwe. Both batted with poise and precision, but once they were dismissed, the innings unraveled dramatically.
Sean Williams fell just after reaching his fifty, and Taijul went on a rampage in the final session. He removed Wessly Madhevere for 15, Wellington Masakadza for six, and Richard Ngarava for a golden duck — all in quick succession. His fifth came with just five overs left in the day, when he sent back Welch for 54, ending Zimbabwe’s last significant stand.
Despite the collapse, Blessing Muzarabani and Tafadzwa Tsiga held their nerve to see off the remaining overs and take the match into Day 2.
Taijul wrapped up the day with brilliant figures of 5-60, while Nayeem Hasan provided solid support from the other end, claiming two wickets.
Bangladesh made a few bold changes heading into this must-win Test. Right-arm pacer Tanzim Hasan Sakib was handed his debut, while Anamul Haque and Nayeem Hasan were recalled into the playing XI. The decision came after Anamul’s impressive domestic form, where he had hit four centuries. Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Nahid Rana, and Khaled Ahmed were dropped to accommodate the reshuffle.
The hosts will now look to wrap up the Zimbabwe innings quickly on Day 2 and build a strong first-innings lead as they aim to level the series. With Taijul in rhythm and confidence high, Bangladesh are firmly in the driver’s seat.
