Bangladesh defeated Zimbabwe by 34 runs in the second T20I to level the three-match series 1-1 and set up a winner-take-all decider on Sunday.After a comprehensive defeat in the first game, the visiting team responded in a strong way and improved greatly in three aspects. In contrast, Zimbabwe endured a rare off-day with bat, ball and field, failing to catch a number of catches before failing to chase down a challenging target of 187.Bangladesh made the most of a reprieve of 186 before their bowlers ensured Zimbabwe never gained momentum in the chase.
Zimbabwe’s foreign defense woes are costly
Zimbabwe’s troubles started on the field, where a series of catch errors allowed Bangladesh to dominate.Opener Saif Hassan was the biggest beneficiary as he survived several chances to link up with Tanzid Hasan Tamim for a brilliant opening partnership of 120 to set the stage for a race for the overall score.Despite sloppy fielding, Zimbabwe fought back briefly, taking five wickets in quick succession, raising hopes of restricting the visitors to a sub-par score.However, Yasir Ali and Mohammad Saifuddin ensured Bangladesh finished the match strongly. Saifuddin provided the final spark in the final over, knocking four sixes off Brad Evans in the final over to push Bangladesh to 186 and shift the momentum firmly in the visitors’ favour.The final attack proved decisive and Zimbabwe ended up regretting Bangladesh’s costly mistake in building such a strong total.
Rishad and Mahdi win easily
Zimbabwe never really posed a threat during the chase as Bangladesh’s bowlers struck the ball at regular intervals.Unlike the opening T20I, Zimbabwe dictated the course of the match but none of their batsmen were able to turn their starts into substantial innings. The hosts kept conceding goals at crucial moments, hampering the development of any meaningful partnership.The Zimbabwe batsmen failed to breach the 30-run mark as the required run rate continued to climb.Leg-spinner Rishad Hussain was the main spoiler as he ended the chase with four wickets, while Mahdi Hasan provided excellent support with three scalps.Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling attack perfectly complemented the batting effort as Zimbabwe ended the match 34 runs short of the target.The comprehensive victory marked an ideal response from the visitors after a disappointing defeat in the series opener. It also ended Zimbabwe’s early dominance on the tour, with the hosts unable to match the intensity they displayed in their first match.The series is currently tied at 1-1 and both teams will go into Sunday’s third and final T20I knowing that a win will secure the series.
