STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Zimbabwe clinched their first ODI series against Bangladesh since 2013 as Sikandar Raza and skipper Regis Chakabva’s 201-run stand set them on course for a dominating five-wicket win in the second ODI in Harare yesterday.

Hasan Mahmud gave the Tigers a positive start with the ball, bagging two early wickets, before spinner Mehedi Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam got one each to leave Zimbabwe in tatters.

Raza came in when the chips were down as his side were struggling at 49 for four. Along with Chakabva, Raza slowly got the score moving with both batters initially focusing on reconsolidating the innings.

The pivotal moment from Bangladesh’s perspective came when Raza got a reprieve in the 26th over after Mehedi Hasan Miraz dislodged the stumps with his wrong hand while Raza was out of his crease, running back to the danger end. The third-umpire’s call saw Raza get the lifeline that he and his side desperately needed. From then on, the duo showed the required skill and mental resilience to get the game away from the Tigers.

Chakabva departed to Miraz after a stormy 75-ball 102, laced with 10 fours and two sixes. However, Raza and debutant Tony Munyonga ensured that Zimbabwe won without further hiccups.