Pakistan wrapped up the first day of their second and final Test match against Bangladesh unharmed, as Litton Das’ century helped the Tigers recover from a sticky situation to post a decent first innings total at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium today.
At the end of the day, Pakistan were at 21 for no loss in six overs, still trailing by 257 runs, with Azan Awais unbeaten on 13 off 20 deliveries and Abdullah Fazal not out on eight off 16 deliveries.
Bangladesh managed to compile 278 all out in 77 overs, with Litton Das playing a crucial role by scoring his sixth Test century. The hosts were in trouble at 116 for six before Litton’s innings turned things around. He scored 126 off 159 balls, forming partnerships of 60, 38, and 64 runs with Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, and Shoriful Islam, respectively.
Litton’s century was his third against Pakistan, and he displayed aggressive batting with 12 boundaries and a maximum. Despite his efforts, he was eventually dismissed by Hassan Ali after adding more valuable runs to the scoreboard.
Pakistan dominated the second Test by restricting Bangladesh to 116 for six after Lunch on Day 1. The visitors’ disciplined bowling attack, led by Mohammad Abbas and Sajid Khan, kept the Tigers in check, with skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz falling in quick succession.
Abbas set the tone early by dismissing Mahmudul Hasan Joy, while Khurram Shahzad removed key batters like Mominul Haque. Despite a brief partnership between Shanto and Mushfiqur, Pakistan’s bowlers maintained control over the game.
The day also saw the return of experienced batter Babar Azam to the Pakistani lineup, adding strength to the team. Both sides will be looking to make the most of the remaining days, with rain predicted throughout the match.
Bangladesh currently leads the series 1-0, having claimed victory in the previous Test in Mirpur. The match promises an exciting battle between the two teams as they fight for supremacy in the World Test Championship.
Both teams made strategic changes to their playing XIs, with debutant Tanzid Tamim featuring for Bangladesh, while Babar Azam returned for Pakistan. The match conditions, including the overcast sky, could play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the game.
The second Test continues with high stakes as both teams strive for victory in the ongoing series.
