Despite a middle-order collapse that saw Zimbabwe squander a commanding position on the opening day of the second Test against Bangladesh, assistant coach Dion Ebrahim remains confident in his team’s ability to fight back—primarily through their spin unit, which he believes can turn the match on its head.
Welch, Williams set up promising start before Bangladesh hit back
— Zimbabwe Cricket Domestic (@zcdomestic) April 28, 2025
Details 🔽https://t.co/2eS3Y5j7Sa pic.twitter.com/YRZ9fRCPbG
Williams’ Gritty 67 Offers Platform Amid Collapse
Sean Williams continued his rich vein of form with a composed 67, anchoring Zimbabwe’s innings until his dismissal triggered a late collapse. Attempting a paddle sweep against Nayeem Hasan, Williams misjudged the delivery, handing the hosts a critical breakthrough just as Zimbabwe looked poised to post a dominant first-innings total. The team slumped from 178 for 4 to 227 for 9 by stumps.
Despite the collapse, Ebrahim stood firmly behind Williams’ decision to play the shot. “It’s one of his best scoring options against spin,” he explained. “It wasn’t poor judgment—just a rare lapse in execution.”
Williams has now scored three consecutive fifties on this tour, underlining his value in a batting lineup striving for stability.
Welch’s Retirement Hampers Momentum
Zimbabwe’s innings was further disrupted by Nick Welch, who retired hurt on 54 after suffering from severe cramps. According to Ebrahim, Welch’s condition deteriorated sharply during the tea break. “He was treated on the field and again in the dressing room, but his mobility declined. It was the right call to retire with the hope of returning later.”
Welch’s injury came at a critical juncture and left Zimbabwe vulnerable, as the middle order crumbled under sustained pressure from Bangladesh’s spinners.
Pitch Offers Early Turn, Zimbabwe Banks on Spin Depth
What could have been a frustrating day ended with a note of optimism. The Chattogram pitch began to take sharp turn as early as the first session—conditions Zimbabwe had anticipated. The inclusion of debutant leg-spinner Vincent Masekesa and an extra spinner overall was no coincidence.
“We selected our squad with these conditions in mind,” said Ebrahim. “The ball started turning early, and that trend is only going to increase. We’re confident our spinners can exploit that.”
Zimbabwe’s three-man spin attack—Mavuta, Masakadza, and Masekesa—is being counted on to challenge Bangladesh’s batters, particularly given the pressure of a deteriorating surface.
Ebrahim: “The Game Is Still Balanced”
While acknowledging the missed opportunity to post a bigger first-innings total, Ebrahim refused to concede any advantage to the hosts. “Another 40 or 50 runs would’ve been ideal,” he said. “But given the state of the wicket, we believe the game is still evenly poised.”
He emphasized the importance of early breakthroughs and control in Bangladesh’s reply. With the surface already offering sharp turn, Zimbabwe’s spinners are expected to come into play immediately, creating a low-scoring, high-stakes battle of attrition.
Spotlight on Vincent Masekesa’s Debut
The debut of Vincent Masekesa marks a significant moment for Zimbabwe. Known for his control and ability to vary pace, the young leg-spinner now has the opportunity to prove himself on a helpful pitch. Ebrahim expressed full faith in Masekesa’s readiness, noting that “he’s earned this debut through hard work and consistency.”
Zimbabwe’s reliance on spin, rather than pace, highlights a strategic pivot tailored to subcontinental conditions—a decision that could well define the course of this Test.
Place your bets at JitaBet, JitaWin, and Jita88, they offer really good odds, play and win big!
A dream Test debut for Vincent Masekesa against Bangladesh – 28 April 2025 🌟#BANvZIM pic.twitter.com/7HYaIVD2mA
— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) April 28, 2025
Conclusion
Day one in Chattogram delivered drama, setbacks, and glimpses of opportunity for Zimbabwe. With runs on the board, a turning pitch, and a well-planned bowling attack, the visitors believe they can regain control. The real contest begins now, as Zimbabwe’s spin trio gears up to challenge Bangladesh on a surface tailor-made for them.
