Bangladesh is on the verge of creating history by winning their first ever Test series against Pakistan, after a stunning performance in the second Test at Rawalpindi. Following a strong start in the first innings, where they reached 26 for 6, Bangladesh mounted an impressive comeback, setting the stage for a potential series victory.
The turning point came with a crucial century from Litton Das (138) and a crucial seventh-wicket partnership of 165 runs with Mehidy Hasan Miraz (78). Their resilience defied Pakistan and Khurram Shahzad’s impressive bowling figures of 6 for 90, as Bangladesh posted a respectable 262 in response to Pakistan’s first innings total of 274.
The visitors then unleashed their fast bowlers, Hasan Mahmud (5 for 43) and Nahid Rana (4 for 44), on a green-top track, wreaking havoc on Pakistan’s second innings. The home team was bowled out for a paltry 172, leaving Bangladesh with a target of 185 runs to win.
At the end of day four, Bangladesh were comfortably placed at 43 for no loss, thanks to an aggressive 33 not out off 23 balls by opener Zakir Hasan. His partner Shadman Islam was on 9 not out when stumps were drawn. Bangladesh is now in a strong position to chase down the target and secure a historic series win.
The poor performance from the Pakistan team sparked criticism from former Pakistan batsman Ahmed Shahzad, who expressed his disappointment on social media. Shahzad accused the team of poor shot selection and a lack of learning from their mistakes. He also blamed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the team’s recent struggles, calling for a change in the board’s approach.
“Bangladesh have come and created history by beating you in the first Test and now dominating in the second. It is not a fluke. When you lose to Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, Ireland, these things are not fluke. It is the reality of Pakistan, you have brought it to this stage,” Shahzad said on social media.
With Bangladesh in a commanding position going into the final day, the stage is set for a thrilling finish. Can Bangladesh pull off a historic series win or will Pakistan fight back and salvage the series?
