Bangladesh Takes 112-Run Lead After Third Day

Sports Desk

Just before the tea break, a quiet concern spread through the Bangladesh camp after Mushfiqur Rahim’s dismissal. However, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and Zakir Hasan Anik ensured those worries didn’t last long. Their determined batting before bad light stopped play helped Bangladesh build a lead of over 100 runs.

At stumps on Day 3 of the Sylhet Test, Bangladesh still have six wickets in hand and lead by 112 runs. Play was called off early at 4:41 PM local time due to fading light, with Bangladesh at 194/4. The day’s play was officially declared over at 5 PM.

Rain washed out the first session of the third day. Play finally began at 1 PM, with plans to continue until 6 PM to make up for lost time. However, poor light halted proceedings after just 44 overs were bowled, during which Bangladesh added 137 runs while losing four wickets to Zimbabwe’s bowlers.

Shanto, who had thrown his wicket away for 40 in the first innings with an unnecessary shot, completed a half-century in the second innings. The captain, who was dropped on 26, remains unbeaten on 60. Zakir Ali is also not out on 21. The pair have added 39 runs for the fifth wicket off 92 balls.

After tea, Bangladesh resumed at 155/4. While playing some attacking shots initially, Shanto later showed restraint, with Zakir also displaying patience. They ensured the team didn’t face any further trouble.

Bangladesh had disappointed by being bowled out for just 191 in their first innings in Sylhet. Zimbabwe then took an 82-run lead after scoring 273 in reply. In this context, Bangladesh’s second innings will play a crucial role in deciding the match’s outcome.