Nahid Rana delivered a remarkable performance in the final session, leading Bangladesh to a 104-run victory over Pakistan in the first Test at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur today. This win gave Bangladesh a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
Pakistan was dismissed for 163 while chasing a target of 268, with Rana taking a five-wicket haul (9.5-2-40-5) on the last day of the match. Rana completed his five-wicket haul with the final wicket, dismissing Shaheen Shah Afridi for a duck, as the hosts secured a convincing win.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan resumed after Tea needing 145 runs with seven wickets in hand. However, Bangladesh’s bowlers maintained pressure on the visitors, utilizing the pitch’s variable movement and turn.
Pakistan was struggling at 158 for nine in 50 overs, needing 110 more runs with just one wicket remaining. Abdullah Fazal and Salman Agha provided some resistance after Tea, but Bangladesh dominated the final session.
Taijul Islam and Taskin Ahmed dismissed Fazal and Agha, respectively, to put Pakistan under immense pressure. Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel tried to stabilize the innings, but Rana’s pace proved too challenging for Pakistan.
Rana took crucial wickets, including Shakeel and Rizwan, as Bangladesh closed in on victory. Eventually, with Rana’s impressive performance and support from the rest of the team, Bangladesh successfully defended their target against Pakistan.
In the morning session, Bangladesh declared their second innings at 240 for nine, setting Pakistan a target of 268 runs for victory. Pakistan faced early setbacks in their chase, losing opener Imam-ul-Haq early on to Taskin Ahmed.
As the day progressed, Bangladesh continued to build their advantage, with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto leading the way with a strong unbeaten innings of 79. Mehidy Hasan Miraz supported him as Bangladesh extended their lead beyond 200 runs on the final day.
