In a gripping Test match at Mirpur, Bangladesh was dismissed for a total of 413 runs in their first innings on the second day of the contest against Pakistan. The hosts resumed the day at 301 for 4, showing promise, but ultimately could not capitalize fully on their strong start.
Bangladesh’s captain Najmul Hossain Shanto played a commanding innings, scoring a fluent century with 101 runs. He was well supported by Mominul Haque, who contributed a solid 91, and Mushfiqur Rahim, who anchored the innings with a valuable 71. These three batsmen laid a strong foundation, but the momentum faltered as the innings progressed.
The lower order struggled to extend the innings significantly. Liton Das added 33 runs, Mehidy Hasan Miraz managed 10, and Taijul Islam chipped in with 17. Ebadot Hossain was dismissed without scoring, while Taskin Ahmed contributed 28 runs before the innings came to an end. This lack of substantial lower-order resistance allowed Pakistan to regain control of the match.
Pakistan’s bowling unit delivered a disciplined and effective performance. Mohammad Abbas was the standout bowler, claiming an impressive five-wicket haul that played a pivotal role in restricting Bangladesh. Shaheen Shah Afridi supported well with three wickets, while Hasan Ali and Nauman Ali each took one wicket. The seamers maintained relentless pressure, especially in the middle and lower order, which ultimately led to Bangladesh’s innings folding.
In a significant development, Pakistan has seized the momentum heading into their first innings, having contained Bangladesh after a promising start. The match remains finely poised, with Pakistan’s bowling attack proving crucial in shifting the balance in their favor at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
