Taijul Islam’s hat-trick, the first by an ODI debutant, spun Zimbabwe out for 128 and spurred Bangladesh to their second 5-0 series win. The home side won with 25.3 overs and five wickets to spare, with Mahmudullah and Sabbir Rahman unbeaten on 51 and 13 respectively. Bangladesh’s spin attack was the story of the match.
Bangladesh were kept under pressure by Zimbabwe for short periods in both innings, but the hosts were always only a partnership or a wicket away from taking command, and duly went up 4-0 in the five-match series with the 21-run win in Mirpur. Zimbabwe did however record their best bowling figures, highest opening partnership,
Alagappan Muthu (ESPNcricinfo) Bowl straight, enlist the assistance the pitch was eager to provide, prey on the batsman’s uncertainty. Repeat. Taijul Islam’s strategy was simple and his execution was ruthless enough to give him the best bowling figures in Bangladesh history. His 8 for 39 should have heralded a dominant victory, but familiar failings were