On this day in 2005, Bangladesh etched their name in cricketing history by securing their maiden Test victory. Playing against Zimbabwe in Chittagong, the home side achieved a commanding win by 226 runs, marking a turning point in their journey as a Test-playing nation. This milestone came in their 35th Test match, over four years after gaining Test status in 2000.
Dominance in Chittagong: A Game-Changing Test
The first Test of the two-match series was held at the MA Aziz Stadium in Chittagong. Bangladesh opted to bat first after winning the toss, aiming to establish a strong foundation. They delivered on that intent with a massive first-innings total of 488 runs. Key contributions came from captain Habibul Bashar (94), Rajin Saleh (89), and all-rounder Mohammad Rafique (69). Lower-order support was equally vital, with Mashrafe Mortaza smashing a quickfire 48 off just 44 balls to strengthen the total.
Zimbabwe, in reply, found themselves struggling for momentum. While skipper Tatenda Taibu (92) and Elton Chigumbura (71) displayed resilience in the middle order, the visitors could only manage 312 runs. Left-arm spinner Mohammad Rafique was instrumental in dismantling Zimbabwe’s batting lineup, claiming 5 wickets for 65 runs. This effort gave Bangladesh a crucial first-innings lead of 176 runs.
Setting a Challenging Target
In the second innings, Bangladesh sought to consolidate their position. Captain Habibul Bashar once again anchored the innings with a solid knock of 55 runs, supported by contributions from the middle and lower order. The home side declared their innings at 204 for 9, leaving Zimbabwe a daunting target of 381 runs for victory.
Enamul Haque Jr’s Heroics Seal the Win
Faced with a steep target, Zimbabwe’s batting faltered under pressure. Enamul Haque Jr, a 19-year-old left-arm spinner, emerged as the star of the show with a match-winning spell, claiming 6 wickets for just 45 runs. Zimbabwe was bowled out for a mere 154, handing Bangladesh a historic victory by 226 runs.
A Watershed Moment for Bangladesh Cricket
This victory was a defining moment for Bangladesh cricket, marking their emergence as a competitive Test side. The win was celebrated nationwide, ending a long wait for success in the longest format of the game. To further cement their achievement, Bangladesh drew the second Test of the series, securing their first-ever Test series win.
Although their next Test victory came four years later against a weakened West Indies team, this triumph in Chittagong laid the foundation for Bangladesh’s growth in international cricket. The first Test win remains a cherished memory and a symbol of their determination and progress.
