Zimbabwe delivered a stunning performance to secure an emphatic 8-wicket victory against Bangladesh at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
Sikandar Raza's stellar leadership and Brian Bennett's exceptional display were instrumental in Zimbabwe's triumph, breaking their streak of four consecutive losses in the series. Bennett, finishing as Zimbabwe's top run-scorer in the series, showcased his prowess with a crucial 70 runs off 49 balls, including five fours and an equal number of sixes.
Bangladesh, batting first, faced early setbacks as Raza's decision to field paid off, reducing the hosts to a precarious 15-3 within the fifth over. The seam and bounce from Blessing Muzarabani, combined with Bennett's spin, proved challenging for the Bangladeshi batters, resulting in two wicket-maidens during the powerplay.
Despite Mahmudullah's resilient fifty and Shanto's valiant efforts, Bangladesh struggled to build momentum. Mahmudullah's well-timed boundaries and Shanto's gradual acceleration provided a semblance of stability. However, Mahmudullah's dismissal for a commendable 54 off 44 deliveries by Muzarabani dealt a blow to Bangladesh's aspirations for a formidable total.
Bd-pratidin English/Tanvir Raihan
