Strong Opening Stand Gives Bangladesh a Solid Start in Chattogram Test

Bangladesh got off to a confident start in their first innings of the Chattogram Test against Zimbabwe, thanks to a solid opening partnership between Anamul Haque Bijoy and Sadman Islam. For the first time in 12 innings, Bangladesh's openers posted a fifty-plus stand in Test cricket, offering a sense of relief and renewed hope.

At lunch on Day 2, Bangladesh reached 105 without loss in 26 overs in reply to Zimbabwe's first innings total of 227. Sadman Islam led the charge with a composed half-century — his sixth in Tests — reaching 66* off 78 balls by the break. Anamul Haque Bijoy, playing his first Test in nearly three years, looked confident at the crease and remained unbeaten on 38 off 65 deliveries.

Prior to this match, Bangladesh’s last 12 opening stands in Test cricket had all fallen short of the 50-run mark. With Mahmudul Hasan Joy struggling for form, Anamul was recalled to the squad — a move that appears to be paying off. Their partnership lasted the entire morning session, providing much-needed stability at the top of the order.

Earlier in the day, Zimbabwe’s innings came to a quick end, resuming from an overnight score of 227/9 and adding no further runs as Taijul Islam dismissed Blessing Muzarabani with the very first ball. Taijul finished with outstanding figures of 6 for 60, continuing his fine run of form in the series.

Anamul, now 32, last played a Test in June 2022 during Bangladesh’s tour of the West Indies. After dominating the domestic scene, particularly the Dhaka Premier League, his return to the national side has been a timely boost.

With both openers still at the crease and the pitch looking favorable, Bangladesh will now aim to build a commanding first-innings lead.