2nd Test: Bangladesh level series against Zimbabwe

Masakadza’s ton in vain as hosts lose by 143 runs.

HARARE:

Hamilton Masakadza’s determined 111 not out went in vain as Bangladesh wrapped up only their fourth Test win to level the two-match series against Zimbabwe.

Masakadza held off the Bangladesh attack for more than six hours but lacked support at the other end, allowing the tourists to bowl Zimbabwe out for 257 and complete a 143-run victory at Harare Sports Club.

“After such a huge defeat in the first Test the boys have come back well,” said Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim. “We were under big pressure because when we play against Ireland and Zimbabwe we are expected to win every match at home or abroad.”

Zimbabwe, on the other hand, were left to lament a number of soft dismissals from the batsmen and dropped catches in the field.

Rahim was named man-of-the-match for his 60 and 93, which both came after top-order collapses, while Bangladesh seamer Robiul Islam was man of the series after picking up 15 wickets in the two matches.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 30^th, 2013.