Bangladesh is on the brink of securing their first-ever Test series victory against Pakistan as they close in on a 2-0 clean sweep in the second Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The visitors require just 143 more runs with all ten wickets in hand, after dismissing Pakistan for a modest 172 runs in their second innings.
Bangladesh’s opening pair of Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam began the chase confidently, reaching 42/0 in just seven overs before bad light and rain interrupted play. Hasan was particularly aggressive, remaining unbeaten on 31, including two sixes, while Islam provided steady support with nine runs to his name.
Earlier in the day, Bangladesh’s pace duo, Hasan Mahmud and Nahid Rana, wreaked havoc on Pakistan’s batting lineup. The hosts struggled to build momentum and lost wickets at regular intervals. Mahmud was particularly impressive, taking key wickets that included Pakistan’s top-order batsmen, leaving the home side in disarray.
Pakistan’s Batting Struggles Continue
Pakistan's batting woes were evident once again as they failed to cope with Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling attack. The home team managed to put up only 172 runs, despite a promising start. Abrar Ahmed top-scored with a resilient 41, but his efforts were not enough to lift Pakistan out of trouble.
Bangladesh’s bowlers were relentless, with Hasan Mahmud and Nahid Rana leading the charge. Mahmud’s pace and accuracy left Pakistan’s batsmen with little room to score, while Rana’s swing and seam movement added to their misery. The duo shared eight wickets between them, decimating Pakistan’s lineup and setting the stage for a historic victory.
Bangladesh’s Confident Start in the Chase
In response to Pakistan’s total, Bangladesh’s openers took charge with a positive approach. Zakir Hasan looked in fine touch, taking the attack to the Pakistani bowlers. His aggressive intent was clear from the start, as he dispatched the ball to all parts of the ground. Shadman Islam played the perfect foil, ensuring that Bangladesh did not lose an early wicket.
As the light deteriorated and rain started to fall, the umpires called for an early close to the day’s play. Bangladesh will resume their chase on the final day, needing just 143 more runs to make history.
A Historic Moment Beckons
For Bangladesh, a victory in this Test would mark their first-ever series win over Pakistan in Test cricket. The team has shown remarkable resilience and skill throughout the series, with both their batting and bowling units firing in unison. A win would also be a significant milestone for Bangladesh cricket, signaling their growing prowess in the longest format of the game.
The final day promises to be an exciting one, with Bangladesh on the cusp of a famous victory. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need to produce something extraordinary to avoid a series whitewash on home soil.