Bangladesh wasted a golden opportunity in Harare as Zimbabwe pulled off a remarkable 25-run victory in the opening ODI by successfully defending just 141, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
The Tigers had earlier produced a superb bowling display, led by Nahid Rana's career-best 6 for 21, to dismiss Zimbabwe for 141 in 36.4 overs.
However, Bangladesh's fragile batting line-up failed to capitalize, collapsing for 116 in 33.1 overs in a disappointing chase.
Bangladesh's pursuit got off to the worst possible start as Tanzid Hasan (8), Soumya Sarkar (6) and Najmul Hossain Shanto (3) all departed inside the first five overs, reducing the visitors to 17 for 3.
With the top order back in the pavilion, Towhid Hridoy and Nurul Hasan Sohan attempted to rebuild the innings with a 49-run partnership. Hridoy made a patient 25 off 58 balls, while Sohan fought hard for 31 off 44, including three fours and a six.
Just as Bangladesh looked to regain control, Zimbabwe struck back. Newman Nyamhuri removed Hridoy before Mosaddek Hossain followed soon after. Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz managed only 10, and Sohan's dismissal to Brad Evans triggered another collapse.
Bangladesh lost their last six wickets for just 50 runs, with the lower order offering little resistance. Nahid Rana remained unbeaten on 5, but Mustafizur Rahman's dismissal ended the chase well short of the target.
Zimbabwe's pace attack shared the wickets brilliantly. Captain Richard Ngarava and Brad Evans claimed three wickets each, while Blessing Muzarabani and Newman Nyamhuri picked up two apiece to complete a memorable defensive effort.
Earlier, Bangladesh had dominated with the ball after electing to field first. Taskin Ahmed removed Brian Bennett (17) and Craig Ervine (0) before Nahid unleashed a devastating spell, dismissing Sikandar Raza (1), Wessly Madhevere (0), Clive Madande (2), Innocent Kaia (26), Brad Evans (3) and Richard Ngarava (27) to register his maiden ODI five-wicket haul and finish with outstanding figures of 6 for 21.
Zimbabwe had slumped to 70 for 8, but a crucial 63-run ninth-wicket partnership between Newman Nyamhuri (33) and Ngarava lifted the hosts to a competitive total of 141, which ultimately proved more than enough.
Despite Nahid's career-best performance, Bangladesh's batting collapse overshadowed the fast bowler's heroics as Zimbabwe secured one of their most memorable ODI victories.
