Shakib leads the way

Bangladesh clinch final ODI, Zimbabwe win series 3-2.

BULAWAYO: Shakib al Hasan played a captain’s knock before taking two wickets as Bangladesh ended their Zimbabwe tour by winning the fifth and final One-Day International (ODI) by 93 runs at the Queen’s Sports Club in Bulawayo. However, the hosts still sealed the series 3-2 after clinching the first three ODIs.

Shakib hit a splendid 79 in Bangladesh’s total of 253 for six before claiming two for 26 as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 160 in the 39th over. The captain was well-supported by off-spinner Mahmudullah who picked up three for 13 as Bangladesh earned a consolation win after losing the one-off Test earlier as well.

Earlier, Shakib recorded his 21st half-century and shared a thrilling run-a-ball sixth wicket partnership of 109 with Mahmudullah, who ended unbeaten on 60, before he was bowled by Keegan Meth.

Meth, who took two wickets in the innings, did not have the happiest of days as he had to be carried off the field of play for medical treatment after being hit full in the mouth by Mahmudullah.

Ray Price was the standout of the bowlers finishing with three for 51.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 22^nd,  2011.