Zakir ton powers Emerging team to emphatic win over Zimbabwe A

Captain Zakir Hasan struck a superb century as Bangladesh Emerging Team cruised to an 85-run victory over Zimbabwe 'A' in the opening one-dayer of the three-match series at the Shaheed Chandu Stadium in Bogura on Monday.

Leading from the front, Zakir smashed 119 off 97 balls, laced with nine fours and five sixes. He received strong support from Iftakhar Hossain Ifti, who made 70 off 58 deliveries, while Samiun Basir Ratul provided late fireworks with a brisk 41 off just 18 balls.

After being sent in to bat, Bangladesh piled up a formidable 364 before being bowled out on the final ball of their innings.

For Zimbabwe 'A', pacer Ernest Masuku was the standout bowler with figures of 3-70, while Antum Naqvi and Michael Frost picked up two wickets each.

In reply, the visitors made a steady start through Innocent Kaia (26) and Matthew Campbell (52), who shared a 60-run opening stand. However, Bangladesh struck at regular intervals after the breakthrough, reducing Zimbabwe 'A' to 116-5 in the 25th over.

Wessly Madhevere waged a lone battle with a brilliant 116 off 93 balls, but found little support from the other end as Zimbabwe 'A' were eventually bowled out for 279 in 48.5 overs.

Pacer Rohan Ud Dowla and left-arm spinner Ratul starred with the ball for Bangladesh, claiming three wickets each. Rohan returned figures of 3-72, while Ratul finished with 3-52. Aliss Al Islam chipped in with two wickets.

The second match of the series will be played at the same venue on Wednesday.