Mehidy Hasan Miraz Overpowered as Zimbabwe Dominate
Zimbabwe's bowlers have set the tone for the series, and the team's opening pair has given them a solid start. With the pitch expected to improve for batting, Zimbabwe will look to build on their advantage and post a big total.
Zimbabwe's disciplined bowling performance, led by Blessing Muzarabani's aggression, helped them take control of the first Test against Bangladesh, bowling out the visitors for 191 runs on the opening day.
Bangladesh, who won the toss and chose to bat first, were unable to capitalize on the decision, with only Mominul Haque (56) and Najmul Hossain Shanto (40) reaching decent scores. The Zimbabwe attack bowled aggressively and disciplined lines, with paceman Blessing Muzarabani and left-arm orthodox Wellington Masakadza taking three wickets each. Zimbabwe's pace bowling coach Charl Langeveldt praised his bowlers for showcasing discipline and patience, attributing Bangladesh's collapse to "mental errors".
Bangladesh assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin echoed similar sentiments, stating that the team made tactical and mental mistakes, including playing shots abruptly and lacking routine. The visitors' batting woes were further exposed as they were bowled out for 191 in 61 overs, giving Zimbabwe a rare opportunity to set a formidable first innings total. At stumps, Zimbabwe's openers Brian Bennett and Ben Curran remained unbeaten on 40 and 17 respectively, taking the team to 67/0.
The pitch is expected to be better for batting on the second day, and Zimbabwe will look to capitalize on the momentum gained on the first day. The second and final Test of the series will be played in Chattogram from April 28, and Bangladesh will need to regroup and come up with a strong performance to stay in the series.