Tamim hundred dominates President’s XI

ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC):

Tamim Iqbal dominated the Cricket West Indies President’s XI attack with an unbeaten hundred on the opening day of Bangladesh’s three-day tour match here yesterday.

The left-hander struck 19 fours and a six in scoring 140 not out off 240 balls as he warmed up nicely for next week’s opening Test at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium.

Nazmul Hossain struck 54 batting at number three as Bangladesh, opting to bat first at Coolidge Cricket Ground, reached the close on 274 for six.

Seamer Jeremiah Louis was the best bowler for the hosts, picking up two for 44.

And it was the Leeward Islands Hurricanes seamer who grabbed the early breakthrough when he removed Mahmudul Hasan Joy without scoring in the morning’s second over with two runs on the board.

His dismissal brought together Tamim and Nazmul, however, and they took charge in a stand of 140 for the second wicket.

Nazmul faced 99 balls and counted nine fours but his dismissal triggered a slide which saw three wickets tumble for 10 runs before Tamim propped up the innings.

Bangladesh will face West Indies in two Tests – the first carded for June 16-20 and the second scheduled for June 24-28 at the Daren Sammy National Stadium in St Lucia.