The much-anticipated second Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Rawalpindi got off to a soggy start, with the opening day completely washed out by persistent rain. The downpour, which had been predicted, left the Pindi Stadium’s outfield saturated, with puddles of water rendering it unplayable.
Despite efforts by ground staff to prepare the pitch, the relentless rain left the umpires with no option but to call off play for the day shortly after the lunch break. The decision was made after the outfield remained unfit for any cricketing action.
The drainage facilities at the venue have come under scrutiny, with concerns raised about their ability to cope with heavy rainfall. To compensate for the lost time, extra overs will be allocated for each of the remaining days of the Test, with a minimum of 98 overs scheduled per day.
Bangladesh, who are aiming to secure their third ever away Test series victory since gaining Test status in 2000, are looking to make history. Their only previous wins came against the West Indies in 2009 and Zimbabwe in 2021. They are currently leading the two-match series 1-0 after a dominant 10-wicket victory in the first Test, also played in Rawalpindi.
Pakistan, desperate to level the series, will be hoping for improved weather conditions in the coming days. They will be without pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi, who has been left out of the 12-member squad to spend time with his newly born son.
The second Test match promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams eager to claim victory. However, the weather forecast suggests further rain could disrupt the remaining days of the match, adding another layer of uncertainty to the proceedings.
