A day that began with the promise of dominance for Bangladesh ended in frustration, as a late batting collapse on the second day of the Chattogram Test allowed Zimbabwe a way back into the contest.
Having bowled the visitors out for 227 within the first over of the morning, Bangladesh seized control of proceedings through a fluent century from Shadman Islam and a strong top-order performance. But a disjointed final session, marred by reckless shot selection and a crucial run-out, saw the hosts crumble from a position of strength at 194 for 1 to a more tentative 279 for 7 by stumps.
Shadman, whose last Test hundred came against the same opposition in 2021, ended a 26-innings drought with a composed innings. He reached his second career century in style, driving through extra cover for four. His 100-plus stand with Anamul Haque provided Bangladesh with the perfect response to their bowlers’ earlier efforts.
Anamul, returning to the Test side after a three-year absence, looked in fine touch before falling lbw to the tireless Blessing Muzarabani for 39. The right-hander misjudged an incoming delivery and, despite a review, had to depart with the on-field umpire’s decision upheld.
A brief stutter at 121 for 1 was soon steadied by Shadman and Mominul Haque, who looked comfortable before an ill-judged slog-sweep brought about his downfall for 33. The dismissal triggered a double blow for Bangladesh, as Shadman was trapped lbw by Ryan Bennett the very next ball. From a position of command, the hosts suddenly found themselves at 196 for 3.
Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim added 65 valuable runs to move Bangladesh into the lead. Najmul, though far from his fluent best, ground out 23 before falling to debutant Vincent Masukeza’s first Test wicket—caught at short midwicket after a loose drive.
Masukeza continued to impress, removing fellow debutant Jaker Ali for 5 with a sharp return catch. A mix-up between Mushfiqur and Mehidy Hasan Miraz then led to a disastrous run-out, with Wesley Madhevere striking directly to end Mushfiqur’s promising innings on 40. The veteran batter had struck six fours and a six before his dismissal.
The collapse showed no signs of stopping, as Nayeem Hasan edged Masukeza to the slips for just 3. The Zimbabwe pacer finished the day with excellent figures of 3 for 41, his late burst ensuring the match remained finely poised. From a commanding 194 for 1, Bangladesh had lost six wickets for just 85 runs.
At the close, Mehidy and Taijul Islam were unbeaten at the crease, with the home side leading by 64 runs and only three wickets in hand.
Earlier in the day, it took just one delivery for Bangladesh to end Zimbabwe’s first innings. Taijul Islam wrapped up the innings with a successful review, removing Muzarabani to finish with figures of 6 for 75. Nayeem Hasan’s double strike on the first day had also played a vital role in dismantling Zimbabwe’s middle order.
While Bangladesh still hold a slender advantage, Zimbabwe’s spirited fightback in the final session has breathed life into a contest that looked one-sided for much of the day.