Chattogram, Apr 29 (V7N)- Bangladesh took early control of the second and final Test against Zimbabwe by bowling the visitors out for 227 and replying strongly with 76 runs without loss at stumps on Day 2.

Resuming on 227 for 9, Zimbabwe's innings came to an immediate end on the first ball of the day when Blessing Muzarabani was dismissed, leaving no room for a last-wicket stand.

Taijul Islam was the star for Bangladesh, claiming 6 wickets, marking his 16th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. He led the charge as Zimbabwe collapsed dramatically, losing seven wickets for just 40 runs, after being comfortably placed at 177 for 2.

Earlier, Zimbabwe openers Brian Bennett and Ben Curran gave a solid start, adding 41 runs. Tanzim Hasan Sakib, playing his debut Test, claimed his first wicket by dismissing Bennett for 21. Taijul removed Curran soon after, triggering a steady fall of wickets despite half-centuries from Nick Welch and Sean Williams.

Naeem Hasan and debutant Tanzim Sakib supported well, picking up two wickets each.

In response, Bangladesh openers have started positively, ending the day on 76/0, trailing by 151 runs, with all 10 wickets in hand — setting up a strong platform for a potential first-innings lead.

END/MSS/AJ