Muzarabani’s 6-72 Puts Zimbabwe on Brink of First Test Victory

Zimbabwe are on the brink of a potential historic win after a stellar performance from fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani turned the tide against Bangladesh in the first Test at Sylhet. With just 174 runs needed to seal victory, all eyes are now on Zimbabwe’s batters to complete the job on day four.

Muzarabani delivered a brilliant spell on Wednesday morning, finishing with figures of 6-72 in the second innings — the second-best of his Test career. His efforts helped skittle Bangladesh for 255 after a weather-affected start, setting up a tense finish.

Bangladesh, who resumed on 194-4, managed to add just 61 more runs before being bowled out. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who was not out overnight on 60, failed to add to his total as Muzarabani struck with the second ball of the day, having him caught at fine leg.

The 27-year-old pacer had already dismissed both openers and Mushfiqur Rahim on day three. He returned to claim three more scalps, including Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Jaker Ali, who top-scored with 58.

Muzarabani’s match figures now stand at 9-122, a performance that gives Zimbabwe a realistic chance of taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.

Zimbabwe had earlier posted 273 in their first innings, thanks to fifties from Brian Bennett and Sean Williams. Bangladesh’s spin attack, led by Mehidy Hasan Miraz with 5-52, had kept the visitors in check.

The second and final Test begins on April 28 in Chattogram, but Zimbabwe will be hoping to head there with a series lead if they chase down the remaining 174 runs.

Brief scores:
Bangladesh 191 & 255 (Najmul Hossain Shanto 60, Jaker Ali 58; Blessing Muzarabani 6-72)
Zimbabwe 273 (Brian Bennett 57, Sean Williams 59; Mehidy Hasan Miraz 5-52, Nahid Rana 3-74)
Zimbabwe need 174 runs to win

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Sourced:African Insider

Picture: Blessing Muzarabani/Gallo Images