Nafees, Mehrab hits 50s to beat Zimbabwe

BOGRA, Bangladesh, Dec 3 (Reuters) Half centuries by openers Shahriar Nafees (67) and Mehrab Hossain jnr (54) helped Bangladesh beat Zimbabwe by six wickets in the second one-day international today and lead the five-match series 2-0.

Bangladesh, replying to Zimbabwe's 217-7, made 218 for four in 42.4 overs.

Nafees, who made 105 in the first match, hit 10 fours before being caught by Sean Williams at backward point off Elton Chigumbura, ending an opening partnership of 104.

Mehrab Hossain, scoring his maiden half century, was caught behind by wicketkeeper Brendan Taylor off captain Prosper Utseya.

Saqibul Hasan (36) and captain Habibul Bashar (31 not out) helped steer their side home.

Williams, who hit his maiden half century (61) when Zimbabwe batted, was adjudged man of the match. He hit four fours and a six in his 70-ball innings before being trapped lbw by spinner Mohammad Rafique.

REUTERS PDS RK2131