Rizwan leads resistance as Pakistan face tense chase on final day in Sylhet Test
Pakistan are set for a tense final-day finish after Bangladesh left them needing 121 runs with just three wickets remaining to win the second Test, setting up a dramatic conclusion in Sylhet.
The visitors reached the close of play on day four in a precarious position after a spirited fightback, with only wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan among the recognized batters still at the crease. Pakistan’s tail will now be tasked with supporting him in a challenging chase.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, are three wickets away from sealing a memorable Test victory and will aim to wrap up the match early on day five.
Pakistan showed resilience to drag the contest into the final day after appearing in deep trouble earlier in the innings. A key 134-run partnership between Salman Ali Agha and Rizwan revived hopes for the tourists, with both batters showing composure and intent under pressure.
However, Bangladesh regained control through disciplined bowling, with Taijul Islam playing a decisive role by breaking crucial partnerships and triggering a lower-order collapse. His wickets of Agha and Hasan Ali shifted momentum firmly back in favour of the hosts.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan had also relied on a steadying stand between Shan Masood and Babar Azam, who counterattacked effectively after early setbacks. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Nahid Rana applied consistent pressure, restricting scoring opportunities and striking key blows at regular intervals.
Bangladesh’s bowlers maintained tight lines throughout, with Taijul and Nahid Rana particularly influential as Pakistan slipped from a strong position into survival mode.
The fourth day ended under fading light, with umpires calling stumps due to poor visibility after artificial light took over, leaving Bangladesh in control but Pakistan still clinging to hope.
With three wickets in hand and 121 runs required, the final day promises a tense finish between two evenly matched sides battling for a crucial Test victory.