Bangladesh secured a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe with a comfortable six-wicket victory on Sunday in Chattogram, replicating their success from the first match at the same venue.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Bangladesh's bowlers stifled Zimbabwe's batting lineup. The visitors endured a slow start, failing to score a single boundary in the powerplay, except for a four out of leg-bye.
Bangladesh national women's cricket team meets PM
Taskin Ahmed drew first blood, dismissing Tadiwanashe Marumani LBW in the fourth over with a fuller delivery that trapped the batter in front of the stumps. A successful review confirmed the decision.
Bangladesh's bowlers continued to dominate, with Taskin and leg-spinner Rishad Hossain each claiming two wickets.
A 75-run stand between Brian Bennett and debutant Johnathan Campbell helped Zimbabwe surpass the 100-run mark, but they were ultimately restricted to a below-par total.
Zimbabwe cricketers arrive in Dhaka for 5-match T20I series against hosts
In reply, Bangladesh's openers Litton Das and Tanzim Hasan Tamim adopted a cautious approach, scoring 41 runs in the powerplay. Ainsley Ndlovu provided the breakthrough for Zimbabwe, dismissing Tamim for 18. Litton Das departed soon after for 23.
Despite losing Najmul Hossain Shanto and Jaker Ali, Bangladesh remained on course for victory. Mahmudullah Riyad and Tawhid Hridoy displayed composure and steered the team home with unbeaten scores of 26 and 37 respectively.
Women’s Cricket: India register easy win in series opener vs Bangladesh
Off the third ball of the 19th over, Mahmudullah came towards the line and smashed Blessing Muzarabani for a stunning four over the cover region. This hit off a fuller-length delivery outside off confirmed Bangladesh's win with nine balls remaining.
The next match of the series will be played on May 7th at the same venue, followed by the final two matches in Dhaka on May 10th and 12th.
