Pakistan faces pressure in second test after narrow lead against Bangladesh

RAWALPINDI: Following their defeat in the first Test, Pakistan is once again under scrutiny amid controversies, accusations, and clashes that have surrounded the series. In the second Test, Bangladesh found themselves in deep trouble after being reduced to 26-6 in their first innings, reminiscent of vintage Pakistan cricket. However, by the end of the third day, the situation had dramatically shifted, with Pakistan’s early optimism giving way to concern as they closed the day at 9-2, facing the possibility of a second consecutive defeat.

Score summary:

Pakistan 274 & 9-2

Bangladesh 262 all out

After winning the toss, Bangladesh opted to field first in a match that saw the entire first day washed out by rain. Pakistan's innings was bolstered by half-centuries from Captain Shan Masood (57), Saeem Ayub (58) and Agha Salman (54), allowing them to post a total of 274 runs. Off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz was the standout bowler for Bangladesh, claiming five wickets, while Taskin Ahmed took three and Naheed Rana and Shakib Al Hasan chipped in with one wicket each.

In response, Bangladesh’s innings started disastrously, as Pakistan’s fast bowlers Khurram Shahzad and Mir Ali wreaked havoc, reducing the visitors to 26-6. Only Shadman Islam (10) managed to reach double figures in the top order. However, a remarkable fightback ensued, led by Liton Das (138) and Mehidy Hasan Miraz (78). Their seventh-wicket partnership added 175 runs, rescuing Bangladesh from the brink and allowing them to post a total of 262.

Liton Das's century, which included 13 fours and four sixes, was instrumental in Bangladesh’s recovery. Pakistan’s slim 12-run lead quickly became a cause for concern when they lost two early wickets for just nine runs in their second innings. Abdullah Shafique and Khurram Shahzad both fell cheaply, leaving Pakistan with a precarious lead of just 21 runs and two days of play remaining. The match is finely poised, with Bangladesh sensing an opportunity to press for a series-levelling victory.