Pakistan asserted their dominance over Bangladesh in the first Test match at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, courtesy of stellar centuries by Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel.
The hosts declared their first innings at an imposing total of 448 runs, setting the stage for what could be a decisive victory.
Starting the second day with an overnight score of 24, Rizwan showcased his class by crafting a masterful 171, marking his highest score in Test cricket. His innings was a blend of patience and aggression, featuring 11 boundaries and three towering sixes.
On the other end, Saud Shakeel, who resumed at 57, played a crucial knock, contributing 141 runs before falling. The partnership between Rizwan and Saud was a game-changer, amassing 240 runs that firmly put Pakistan in the driver’s seat.
Both Rizwan and Saud achieved their third Test centuries, underscoring their consistency and prowess in the longest format of the game. Their partnership not only frustrated the Bangladeshi bowlers but also broke their spirit, as they found it increasingly difficult to contain the Pakistani batsmen.
After Saud’s dismissal, Rizwan continued to anchor the innings, forging another vital partnership with Shaheen Shah Afridi. Their aggressive batting approach further deflated Bangladesh’s bowling attack, which had already been struggling to make inroads.
Afridi’s support was instrumental as Rizwan pushed Pakistan’s total beyond 400, leaving Bangladesh with a daunting task ahead.
Bangladesh’s bowlers, led by Hasan Mahmud and Shoriful Islam, found themselves on the receiving end of Pakistan’s batting onslaught. Despite their persistent efforts, they were unable to make significant breakthroughs on the second day.
The lack of penetration in their bowling allowed Pakistan to build a substantial lead, putting the visitors under immense pressure.
As the Test match progresses, all eyes will be on Bangladesh to see if they can mount a comeback and avoid a defeat that seems almost inevitable.
Pakistan’s commanding position has set the tone for the remainder of the series, and unless Bangladesh can conjure a remarkable fightback, this Test might slip out of their hands.
The Rawalpindi pitch, coupled with Pakistan’s confident display, has made it a challenging scenario for Bangladesh, who now face an uphill battle to level the series.
