Veteran cricketer Mushfiqur Rahim achieved his 14th Test century, enhancing Bangladesh’s advantage in the Sylhet Test match against Pakistan with a solid batting performance on day three, setting a challenging 437-run target for the visitors as they pursue a historic victory.
At the close of play, Pakistan’s second innings had not commenced, with the visitors yet to score any runs after only two overs were bowled.
Mushfiqur reached his century by hitting a boundary off Mohammad Abbas after the Tea break. This milestone century now places Mushfiqur as the Bangladeshi player with the most Test centuries, surpassing Mominul Haque’s previous record of 13.
The Bangladesh team’s second innings concluded at 390 runs in 102.2 overs, establishing a lead of 436 runs after their first innings score of 278.
Mushfiqur Rahim was dismissed as the final batsman, with Sajid Khan claiming his crucial wicket. Mushfiqur, visibly disappointed by his dismissal, attempted a bold shot but was caught comfortably by Mohammad Abbas at deep midwicket.
Scoring 137 runs off 233 deliveries, Mushfiqur’s innings included 12 fours and a six.
Khurram Shahzad took four wickets for 86 runs in 20 overs, while Sajid Khan secured three wickets for 126 runs in 33.2 overs.
In contrast to the previous two days, where bowlers dominated, the pitch in Sylhet appeared more favorable for batting on the third day. Despite some early movement under overcast skies, the Bangladeshi batsmen displayed greater confidence and patience.
The day brought mixed emotions for the home team as Liton Das, who was on track for a significant achievement, fell unexpectedly. Despite a promising innings of 69 runs, Liton was caught at third man attempting a risky shot off Hasan Ali, giving Pakistan a breakthrough at a crucial moment.
Before his dismissal, Liton and Mushfiqur formed a vital 123-run partnership that shifted momentum in Bangladesh’s favor. Mushfiqur played a steady innings, allowing Liton to play more aggressively.
Mushfiqur, particularly cautious in the morning session, maintained his composure after the early loss of captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. Even after Liton’s departure, Mushfiqur focused on stability, adding minimal runs in subsequent partnerships.
As the day progressed, Mushfiqur accelerated his scoring rate alongside Taijul, aiming to extend Bangladesh’s lead and push Pakistan out of contention.
Historically, fourth-innings chases at Sylhet have been challenging, with only one successful chase in five Tests at the venue. Bangladesh will look to build a lead beyond Pakistan’s reach before turning to their bowlers on the final day.
