Incessant rain has forced the abandonment of the first Test between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe at Dhaka. The last two days of the game were washed out by continuous drizzle. Although the pitch remained covered for almost 48 hours, the conditions remained unplayable, prompting Match Referee Hanumant Singh to abandon the proceedings and declare a draw.

Zimbabwe left the ground just after lunch today, hugely disappointed as they were almost sure of their win. Bangladesh had been battling to avoid the humiliation of an innings defeat. On day three they had imprudently lost two wickets following a good partnership, in what transpired to be the dying stages of the game.

Habibul Bashar gifted his wicket to Travis Friend with a deceptive slower delivery. At that point Bangladesh were 125 for 3, with Aminul Islam and Mohammed Ashraful at the crease, needing 199 to wipe off the deficit.

It was undoubtedly a lucky escape for the Bangladeshis. Even with just a day left the hosts would have faced a challenging task. Travis Friend was adjudged man of the match for his brilliant performance.

The second Test begins on the 15th November in Chittagong, the port city of the country and the home ground of Akram Khan. He is certain to play, and other changes in the Bangladesh squad are likely.

© CricInfo