Shakib Al Hasan claimed 6-59 to spin Bangladesh into a strong position against Zimbabwe on the day one of their first Test yesterday, as the left-arm spinner ripped through the African side on his way to his 12th five-for as the tourists were dismissed for 240.
At stumps, Bangladesh reached 27-1 to trail by 213 in Dhaka. Mominul Haque was on 14 and Shamsur Rahman on 8.
Tamim Iqbal (7) was the only batsman out after he was undone by a rising delivery off Tinashe Panyangara, fending the ball to Masakadza who stretched high to hold the catch.
Shakib was returning to the national team after serving a three-month ban for his “severe attitude problem.” He behaved impeccably and his haul meant he has now taken five wickets against every test nation.
For Bangladesh, the day almost started perfectly as Shahadat Hossain, back after a year, removed Vusi Sibanda in the first over.
Most Zimbabwe batsmen started well, but failed to carry on, with Shakib hastening their downfall. He was helped by newcomer Jubair Hossain, who returned figures of 2-58.
Opener Sikandar Raza was top scorer with 51, including six fours, while Crag Ervine made 34.
Elton Chigumbura (29) and captain Brendan Taylor (28) also contributed.
Raza and Taylor added 52 for the third wicket to help Zimbabwe settle before Bangladesh got back into the match with three quick wickets after lunch.
Raza, playing in just his second Test, had to be watchful as the pitch gradually became slow and low. He was supported by Taylor initially before newcomer Juabair Hossan induced him with a flighted delivery to take his maiden wicket.
After Raza, Craig Ervine held Zimbabwe together, but he too fell with a needless shot to hasten his side’s collapse.
Shahadat Hossain and Taijul Islam claimed one wicket apiece for Bangladesh.
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