Batsmen dominate the day in Chittagong

Zimbabwe amassed a huge total of 542 for the loss of 7 wickets before declaring their innings half an hour after tea. At stumps Bangladesh had reached 57 for the loss of Javed Omar.

Zimbabwe added 306 to their overnight total for the loss of 4 further wickets, with three of their batsmen scoring centuries. Trevor Gripper completed his on the first day, while Craig Wishart and Andy Flower managed their centuries today.

Both Zimbabweans scored quick runs against the ordinary Bangladeshi attack. Wishart, who missed his century by four runs in the Dhaka Test, fulfilled his dream here playing all around the wicket and giving no opportunity to any bowler to settle down.

During his 150-minute stay in the crease he reached the rope 11 times and hit two great sixes to score 114. His valiant compatriot Andy Flower notched up his 12th century in scoring 114 not out.

Flower played his natural game and was brilliant to watch all through. He was hurt when on 70 and had to return to the dressing room, but after Marilier's fall he came back and reached his hundred comfortably.

Marillier got his second fifty (52) in Bangladesh before falling to Aminul. It was the bowler's maiden Test wicket, gained with the help of Basher's catch.

Zimbabwe declared on reaching 542 when there were eighty minutes of the day was remaining. Both Mashrafe and Enamul took two wickets each. Bangladesh lost an early wicket, that of Javed Omar, who got an edge off Heath Streak to Andy Flower for 8. His runs came from two boundaries in Travis Friend's opening over.

Al-Sahariar and Habibul Bashar batted prudently in the final session for the total to reach 57 by the close of play. Al-Sahariar is not out 25 and Bashar 21.