THE Zimbabwe cricket team has lost the One Day International series against Bangladesh after a narrow 4 run defeat in the second ODI in Sylhet today.
The Chevrons embarked on one of their most dramatic run chases but unfortunately fell to a narrow 4 run defeat to Bangladesh in Sylhet. The Chevrons lost the toss and were sent into field first.
Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal led the way for the hosts with a top batting performance which saw him score 158 runs, smashing twenty 4’s and three 6’s.
Iqbal was ably supported by Mushfiqur Rahim who scored 55 with Mahmudullah chipping in with 41 as Bangladesh posted 322 runs for the loss of 8 wickets.
With Zimbabwe requiring 323 runs to win, the Chevrons were given little chance when they took to the crease but the tourists would produce one of their best batting performances despite eventually falling short of the required target.
Chevrons opener Tinashe Kamhunukamwe scored 51 runs from 70 balls before falling prey to a Taijul Islam delivery.
Senior players namely Sean Williams, Brendan Taylor and Regis Chakabva all flattered to deceive but Wesley Madhevere who was playing in only his second ODI again showed his class with an intelligent 52 run knock before being trapped lbw by Taijul Islam.
After coming in at number 6 Sikander Raza led Zimbabwe’s resistance with an impressive innings of 66 runs fr4om 57 balls setting the stage for a scintillating finale to the match.
A 34 run contribution by Tinotenda Mutombodzi and a quickfire 55 from 28 balls by hard-hitting Donald Tiripano almost unfolded into a dramatic turnaround but the hosts held their nerve, sealing a 4 run victory in a thrilling encounter.
The victory handed Bangladesh an unassailable 2 nil lead in the 3 match ODI series although Chevrons head coach will pick up some positives from the loss.
