In a dazzling display of fast bowling prowess, Taskin Ahmed led Bangladesh to a commanding six-wicket triumph over Zimbabwe in the second T20 International at Chattogram's Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium today. With this victory, Bangladesh asserts a dominant 2-0 lead in the ongoing five-match series, following their earlier eight-wicket win in the series opener.
Taskin's exceptional performance, building on his 3-14 in the first match, saw him claim figures of 2-18 in this encounter, restricting Zimbabwe to a modest 138-7. In pursuit of the target, Bangladesh efficiently chased down the total in 18.3 overs, reaching 142-4.
Contributing significantly to Bangladesh's victory, Towhid Hridoy played a pivotal role with his blistering 37 not out off 25 balls, featuring three fours and two sixes. Mahmudullah's composed unbeaten knock of 26 off 16 deliveries, including an elegant cover-drive for a boundary, sealed the win for the hosts.
Despite a promising start from openers Liton Das and Tanzid Hasan, Zimbabwe's Luke Jongwe posed a challenge with his two crucial wickets, temporarily unsettling Bangladesh's momentum. Tanzid's dismissal for 18 and quick scalps of Najmul Hossain Shanto and Liton Das kept the contest alive for Zimbabwe, but Hridoy and Mahmudullah's resilient partnership steered Bangladesh to victory.
Taskin Ahmed continued to assert his dominance with crucial breakthroughs, supported aptly by leg-spinner Rishad Hossain, who also claimed two wickets.
Zimbabwe's innings, marred by Bangladesh's disciplined bowling, witnessed a slow start, with Joylord Gumbie struggling to find rhythm. Taskin's early breakthrough, combined with effective spells from Mahedi Hasan and Rishad Hossain, compounded Zimbabwe's woes, despite a valiant effort from debutant Jonathon Campbell, who showcased his talent with a brisk 45 off 24 balls.
Brian Bennet's aggressive cameo of 44 not out from 29 deliveries provided Zimbabwe with a fighting chance, but Bangladesh's clinical performance ensured a convincing victory.
As the series progresses, Bangladesh aims to maintain their momentum, while Zimbabwe seeks to bounce back in the upcoming matches. Stay tuned for further updates as the thrilling T20 series unfolds.
Comment: