Masakadza leads Zimbabwe fightback

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Centuries from Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan had helped Bangladesh to a first-innings total of 433 in Khulna, putting the hosts firmly in control.

However, Zimbabwe progressed from 53-1 to 331-5 on day three, thanks in no small part to Masakadza's sterling display.

Having been dropped by Shamsur Rahman off Taijul Islam in the second over of the day, Masakadza batted on to register his fourth Test century and career-best score in the five-day format.

He had faced 316 deliveries by stumps and received able support from Regis Chakabva (75 not out) in a valuable sixth-wicket stand that stood unbroken at 142.

Bangladesh claimed only one wicket in the morning session on Wednesday - Taijul (2-94) having opener Brian Chari caught at mid-off for 25 - but appeared to have seized command during the afternoon.

Brendan Taylor (37) shared 67 with Masakadza, only to become the first of three victims for Shakib, who also ousted Craig Ervine (17) and Elton Chigumbura (1) on his way to figures of 3-70.

However, Chakabva duly settled in alongside Masakadza, with the former passing 50 for only the second time and emulating his partner by achieving his highest Test score.

Zimbabwe trailed by just 102 at the close, their centurion having hit 19 boundaries, and will now hope to build a first-innings lead on day four.

The tourists are 1-0 down in the three-match series after Bangladesh claimed a three-wicket victory in Mirpur last week.

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