Dhaka: Zimbabwe leg spinner Vincent Masekesa has expressed determination to regain control in the ongoing second and final cricket Test against Bangladesh, despite his team’s current disadvantage. Masekesa, who is making his debut in this match, is optimistic about his team’s chances as they prepare for the third day of play.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bangladesh ended Day 2 of the Test at 291-7, holding a lead of 64 runs over Zimbabwe. With Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam still at the crease, Bangladesh aims to extend their lead on a pitch that is showing signs of deterioration. Masekesa, however, remains hopeful, stating, “They’re playing well, no doubt. But we’re still very much in this game. We’ll fight hard to keep things under control tomorrow.”
Masekesa has been pivotal in restricting Bangladesh’s dominance on the field. He secured figures of 3-44, including crucial wickets of Mominul Haque and skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto. Mominul, who was Masekesa’s first Test scalp, was dismiss
ed through a flighted delivery that invited a mistimed slog sweep, resulting in a catch.
Masekesa acknowledged the significance of his debut wickets, particularly the unexpected first one. “Honestly, I wasn’t expecting that [first wicket] at that exact moment,” he admitted. “But it meant a lot. Representing Zimbabwe in Test cricket is a big opportunity, and I was really happy.”
Consistently landing deliveries in the right areas, Masekesa has kept the Bangladeshi batsmen on edge, exploiting the pitch conditions that favor spinners later in the day. “It’s also about putting the ball in the right areas and letting the pitch do the work,” he explained.
Reflecting on his career, Masekesa credited several renowned wrist spinners, including Bangladesh’s Rishad Hossain, for influencing his development. “I am always a big fan of leg-spinners,” Masekesa stated, naming Shane Warne, Graeme Cremer, Adil Rashid, Yuzvendra Chahal, Adam Zampa, and Rishad among his inspirations.