Zimbabwe thrash Bangladesh by 99 runs after batting collapse

Bangladesh suffered a 99-run defeat to Zimbabwe in the opening match of the ODI tri-nation series in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

Batting first, Zimbabwe scored 271 for eight in 50 overs after recovering from an early collapse. Craig Ervine top-scored with 93 off 106 balls, while Brendan Taylor made 81 off 101 balls.

The pair shared a crucial 150-run partnership for the fourth wicket after Bangladesh pacer Taskin Ahmed claimed three early wickets.

In reply, Bangladesh were bowled out for 172 in 33.4 overs while chasing a target of 272. Tanzid Hasan Tamim scored 46 off 38 balls, while Saif Hassan contributed 26.

However, Bangladesh lost wickets at regular intervals and failed to build a strong partnership.

Brad Evans led Zimbabwe’s bowling attack with four wickets for 45 runs, while Wellington Masakadza took two wickets.

Ervine was named Player of the Match for his outstanding innings.

The defeat exposed Bangladesh’s batting frailties as they began their tri-nation campaign on a disappointing note.