Miraz explains Bangladesh's ODI defeat to Zimbabwe

Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz has expressed disappointment after his side's 25-run defeat to Zimbabwe in the first ODI, following a similar loss in the Test match. Chasing a modest target of 142 runs, the Tigers were bowled out for 116, giving Zimbabwe a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Earlier, Bangladesh had reduced Zimbabwe to 70 for 8. However, a 71-run partnership for the ninth wicket between Newman Nyamhuri and Richard Ngarava helped the hosts post a competitive total.

In the chase, Nurul Hasan Sohan and Towhid Hridoy put on a 49-run partnership after an early collapse, but the batting line-up then fell apart, losing wickets in quick succession.

Speaking after the match, Miraz said, "Rana bowled really well and took six wickets. We could have improved in some areas. Even after losing eight wickets, they put together a good partnership and scored valuable runs. That was our weakness."

He added, "Nahid Rana has been bowling well in the last few series. If he continues like this, it will be good for the team. We had opportunities to do better with the ball. Despite that, their two batsmen built a great partnership and played well."

On the pitch, Miraz said, "If we can build partnerships in the first 10 overs while batting, we can do better. We need to take responsibility and perform. 142 runs is not easy in these conditions, but we must build partnerships first to chase such targets."