Bangladesh Take Commanding 217-Run Lead as Miraz Scores Century in Chattogram Test

Bangladesh asserted firm control over the Chattogram Test by posting a strong 444 in reply to Zimbabwe’s 227 in the first innings. The hosts now lead by 217 runs, thanks to centuries from Sadman Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and a gritty knock from debutant Tanzim Hasan Sakib.

The day began with Bangladesh resuming on 291 for 7. Mehidy Hasan Miraz took charge of the lower order, scoring a brilliant 104 — his second Test century — and steering Bangladesh to a formidable total. He shared a crucial 96-run ninth-wicket partnership with Tanzim Sakib, who impressed with a valuable 41 off 80 deliveries in his debut innings.

Earlier, opener Sadman Islam laid the foundation with a composed 120, while Bangladesh crossed the 400-run mark in a home Test innings for the first time in 15 innings.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled to make an impact on Day 3. Leg-spinner Vincent Masakesa, who had claimed three wickets the previous day, managed only one more — dismissing Taijul Islam — during the morning session. Off-spinner Wesley Madhevere eventually broke the Tanzim-Miraz partnership by removing Tanzim for 41 with Bangladesh on 438.

Mehidy reached his century, his first since his maiden ton against the West Indies in 2021, but his innings ended when he was stumped off Masakesa for 104. Bangladesh's innings wrapped up soon after, with Hasan Mahmud remaining unbeaten on 0.

With a 217-run lead and Zimbabwe set to bat again under pressure, Bangladesh are in a commanding position heading into the final stages of the Test.