Taking the lead: Mushfiqur, Shakib inspire Bangladesh to 145-run win

Hosts beat Zimbabwe in first ODI to go 1-0 ahead in three-match series

DHAKA: Shakib alHasan claimed his first ever five-wicket haul as Bangladesh beat Zimbabwe by 145 runs in the first ODI to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Dhaka on Saturday.

Zimbabwe’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss seemed to be the right decision as Bangladesh lost two quick wickets early on but man of the match Mushfiqur Rahim hit a superb 107 off 109 balls to guide Bangladesh to 273-9.

The wicketkeeper batsman was superbly supported first by Tamim Iqbal (40) to bring the hosts out of trouble and then Sabbir Rahman in a century partnership.

Zimbabwe set for Bangladesh one-dayers

The tourists never troubled Bangladesh as wickets kept falling at regular intervals, with several batsmen being guilty of playing too slowly.

Only three Zimbabwe batsmen were able to reach double figures, with Elton Chigumbura’s 41 off 51 balls being the highest score. 

Published in The Express Tribune, November 8^th, 2015.

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