Sean Williams, Brian Bennett help Zimbabwe take crucial first innings lead

Zimbabwe are having a great outing against the hosts Bangladesh in the first Test match at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Sylhet. The visitors took the lead of 82 runs on the second day, thanks to Brian Bennett and Sean Williams’ mindful half-century. The batting order contributed as much as they could to help the team take the much-needed lead in the first match. 

Day 2 started with Zimbabwe openers batting on 67/0 in 14.1 overs. Soon after, Nahid Rana dismissed Ben Curran, which was an important breakthrough for the hosts. After four overs, Bennett followed his opening partner to the pavilion. Nick Welch was dismissed on just two runs, leaving Zimbabwe to 88-3 in 21.3 overs. 

After forming a 41-run partnership with Williams, Craig Ervine lost his wicket on just eight runs. Madhevere complemented well with Williams, scoring 24 runs off 33 balls. They both formed a stable partnership of 48 runs. These small partnerships helped Zimbabwe take the lead and push Bangladesh on to the back foot. Nahid Rana and Mehidy Hasan Miraz were outstanding with the ball, claiming three and five wickets, respectively. 

They were successful enough to take wickets frequently, restricting Zimbabwe from scoring more runs. By the end of the day, Bangladesh trail by 25 runs with Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Mominul Haque present at the crease. They lost Shadman Islam to Muzarabani on just four runs. The game has reached an interesting position where Bangladesh will have to put up a good total to defend in the second innings. 

Looking at Zimbabwe’s form, if the hosts post anything below 200 runs, it will be hard for them to defend. Also, taking early wickets will keep the game open for both teams.

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