Bangladesh’s Mustafizur Rahman and Shakib Al Hasan combined to help Bangladesh secure a five-run victory over Zimbabwe in the fourth Twenty20 international match in Dhaka. Shakib claimed 4-35 while Mustafizur took 3-19 as they bowled out Zimbabwe for 138 runs in 19.4 overs. Despite a collapse in the batting department that saw Bangladesh being bowled out for 143, the duo’s bowling efforts ensured victory for the home side.
Zimbabwe, in reply, got off to a shaky start with opener Brian Bennett getting out for a duck in the first over. They were soon reduced to 57-4 before a middle-order rally by Johnathan Campbell and Ryan Burl kept them in the game. However, Mustafizur and Shakib struck crucial blows to dismiss the set batsmen and put Bangladesh on top. Wellington Masakadza contributed with a quickfire 19 runs, but Zimbabwe fell short of the target in the end.
Bangladesh’s innings had a strong opening with Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Soumya Sarkar putting up a 101-run partnership for the first wicket. However, the collapse that followed saw Bangladesh lose their last eight wickets for just 35 runs. Luke Jongwe’s dismissal of Tanzid for 52 triggered the downfall, with Soumya falling in the same over. Zimbabwe fought back with quick wickets, with captain Sikandar Raza and Brian Bennett striking crucial blows.
With the victory, Bangladesh sealed the series after winning the first three matches. Zimbabwe will look to salvage pride in the final match of the series in Dhaka on Sunday. Shakib’s performance in his first T20I in nearly a year was instrumental in the victory, as he wrapped up the Zimbabwe innings with two wickets in the final over. Mustafizur’s tight bowling also played a crucial role in stifling the Zimbabwean batsmen and securing the win for Bangladesh.
The partnership between Shakib and Mustafizur proved to be the difference in the match, with their combined seven wickets breaking the back of the Zimbabwean batting lineup. The win highlighted Bangladesh’s bowling depth and resilience in defending a modest total. With the series already in the bag, Bangladesh will look to complete a clean sweep in the final match, while Zimbabwe will aim to end the tour on a positive note with a win in the last game. The fourth T20I showcased the competitive spirit and skills of both teams, setting the stage for an exciting finale in the series.
