Jaker Ali and Saif Hasan made a compelling case for their inclusion in Bangladesh’s senior cricket squad with magnificent centuries on the penultimate day of the second four-day match against Pakistan Shaheens at the Islamabad Club.
Despite the first two days of the match being washed out due to rain and a wet outfield, the duo’s outstanding performance brought Bangladesh ‘A’ back into the contest.
The match, which had been heavily impacted by adverse weather conditions, saw an extended day’s play on Thursday. Bangladesh ‘A’ capitalized on the opportunity, reaching a strong position at 346 for six in 98 overs.
Their innings was anchored by the solid partnership between Jaker Ali and Saif Hasan, who joined forces when the team was reeling at 77 for four. The pair stabilized the innings with a 131-run stand for the fifth wicket, demonstrating their resilience under pressure.
Saif Hasan, known for his composed batting style, played a crucial innings, scoring 111 runs off 221 balls. His knock was adorned with 13 boundaries and four towering sixes, reflecting a fine blend of patience and aggression.
Saif’s innings came to an end when he was dismissed by Mehran Mumtaz, who managed to break the vital partnership. Saif’s wicket was a significant moment in the match, as it provided a much-needed breakthrough for Pakistan Shaheens.
Mehran, who had earlier claimed the wicket of Shahadat Hossain (23), finished the day with figures of 2-69, making a notable impact on Bangladesh’s progress.
Jaker Ali, coming in at No. 6, played a masterclass innings, remaining unbeaten on 136 from 244 deliveries. His innings was laced with 14 fours and four sixes, showcasing his ability to dominate the bowling attack while maintaining a steady scoring rate.
Jaker’s century, his second in the series, has undoubtedly caught the attention of the Bangladesh selectors as they consider their options for the national team.
Pakistan Shaheens’ bowlers had their moments of brilliance, particularly Ghulam Mudassir, who struck early in the innings. Mudassir dismissed both Bangladesh ‘A’ openers, Anamul Haque (seven) and Mohammad Naim (nine), to give his team an early advantage.
He ended the day with figures of 2-59 from 13 overs, leading the Shaheens’ attack with vigor. Abrar Ahmed also contributed, picking up the crucial wicket of Towhid Hridoy for a duck, which left Bangladesh ‘A’ in a precarious position at 77 for four.
As the match enters its final day on Friday, play will resume at 9:45 AM. Bangladesh ‘A’ will aim to extend their total and put further pressure on Pakistan Shaheens, while the Shaheens will be looking to wrap up the innings swiftly to set up a competitive chase. The match, which has seen a remarkable turnaround, promises an exciting conclusion.