Islamabad, 30 April 2025: Bangladesh finally found some relief at the top of the order as Anamul Haque and Shadman Islam shared a 118-run opening stand against Zimbabwe.
It was their first century stand for the first wicket since December 2022.
Shadman scored a confident 120, while Anamul made 39. It may not look like much, but his approach gave Bangladesh a solid start—something they had been missing in recent Tests.
Anamul looked positive, quick between the wickets, and handled short balls well after a shaky start.
Read More: Al Ahli Outclass 10-Man Al Hilal to Reach Asian Champions League Elite Final
His return to the Test side came as a surprise to many. Anamul had been left out for years despite being a top performer in domestic cricket.
He scored over 2100 runs this season and has 13 centuries since his last Test three years ago.
But doubts remained due to his past struggles at the international level and his off-field issues, including a public dispute with his BPL team over unpaid wages.
Still, at 32, Anamul proved that form and hard work can earn a second chance.
While Bangladesh lost the first Test in Sylhet, he was scoring back-to-back centuries for Gazi Group in the Dhaka Premier League, pushing selectors to take notice.
Read More: PSG Edge Arsenal as Donnarumma Shines in Champions League Semis
Shadman, too, looked in fine touch. His strokeplay was fluent, especially on the off-side, and he kept the scoreboard ticking with regular singles and twos.
He also built a strong 76-run stand with Mominul Haque after Anamul got out.
After the day’s play, Shadman said they followed a simple plan as openers and praised Anamul’s experience and calm presence.
Bangladesh’s opening problems may not be over yet, but this partnership was a step in the right direction—and a reminder that patience and performance still matter.
