A stellar allround show from Mehidy Hasan Miraz has powered Bangladesh to a crushing victory by an innings and 106 runs against Zimbabwe in the Chattogram Test inside three days.
Miraz first produced a batting masterclass under pressure, scoring a diligent 104, before ripping through Zimbabwe batting with a superb 5 for 32 at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium on Wednesday.
Bangladesh racked up 444 in their first innings riding on Miraz’s century, taking a 217-run lead. The hosts then skittled out the Eagles for a measly 111 to register the win to draw the series 1-1.
Miraz masterfully crafted his innings, displaying patience and intent to complete his second Test century off 143 balls, smashing 11 elegant boundaries and a six.
The allrounder’s vigil came to an end when he danced down the track but missed to be stumped off leg-break Vincent Masekesa (5-115), who completed a 5-wicket haul on his Test debut.
Resuming on an overnight 291 for 7, Miraz took charge in the morning as he kept the scoreboard ticking with support from Tanzim Hasan Sakib (41) and Taijul Islam (20).
The right-handed batter was prolific against Blessing Muzarabani (1-84) and Wellington Masakadza (1-90), while the bowlers toiled with little help from the surface.
A flurry of wickets late on Tuesday had worried the hosts after a strong start to the innings, but Miraz’s determination has seen them bolster their total.
A heroic ton by opener Shadman Islam has helped the Tigers take control of the second Test in Chattogram, giving them hope of a comeback win after a shocking loss to the Eagles in the first Test in Sylhet.
