A scintillating century by Mehidy Hasan Miraz has earned Bangladesh a first-innings lead of 217 runs against Zimbabwe on the third day of the series-deciding Chattogram Test.
Miraz’s superb 104 was masterfully crafted under pressure as the allrounder displayed patience and intent to complete his second Test century off 143 balls, smashing 11 elegant boundaries and a six at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium on Wednesday, reports bdnews24.com.
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. Bangladesh were all out for 444.
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.
