Bangladesh Secures Historic 2-0 Series Sweep Against Pakistan with Commanding Chase
On Tuesday in Rawalpindi, Bangladesh achieved a significant cricketing milestone by defeating Pakistan by six wickets in the second Test, thus completing a 2-0 series sweep. This triumph not only marked a successful end to their tour but also highlighted their remarkable performance throughout the series.
Day 5: Bangladesh Chases Down 185-Run Target
Starting the final day with a solid position, Bangladesh resumed their innings at 42-0, chasing a target of 185 runs. The team lost their first wicket just after adding 16 runs when Mir Hamza dismissed Zakir Hasan with a ball that veered away. Following this, Khurram Shahzad claimed the second wicket, removing Shadman Islam, who was caught by Shan Masood at mid-off after miscuing a drive.
Despite these initial setbacks, Bangladesh managed to stabilize their innings. The shallow target of 185 runs and the lack of further breakthroughs from the Pakistani bowlers allowed Bangladesh to consolidate their position. By the 29th over, the visitors reached the 100-run mark, thanks in part to a crucial partnership between Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque. The pair added 50 runs for the third wicket, with Shanto contributing 33 runs and Mominul 20, securing their position with the partnership being completed just before the lunch break.
Post-Lunch Session and Final Push
After the lunch break, Shanto was dismissed, and soon after, Mominul lost his wicket as well. However, the experienced duo of Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan stepped up to guide Bangladesh to victory. Rahim, who remained unbeaten on 22, and Shakib, who finished with 21 not out, navigated the team past the victory target with minimal fuss. Shakib played a crucial role in sealing the win, striking a boundary off spinner Abrar Ahmed to finish the chase.
Series Overview and Historical Context
With this win, Bangladesh not only wrapped up the series with a 2-0 margin but also secured their first-ever Test series win against Pakistan, having previously struggled in 14 encounters. This series victory adds to their limited record of winning away Test series, having previously triumphed against the West Indies in 2009 and Zimbabwe in 2021.
Day 4: Pakistan’s Struggles and Bangladesh’s Fightback
On the fourth day, Bangladesh’s bowlers made a significant impact, with Hasan Mahmud taking 5-43 and Nahid Hasan adding 4-44 to dismiss Pakistan for 172 in their second innings. This performance set the stage for a challenging chase, but Bangladesh’s openers Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam raced to 42 without loss before rain disrupted play. The rain-affected Test saw the first day’s play washed out, and the match was marred by interruptions that affected the flow of the game.
Critical Moments from Earlier in the Test
Earlier in the series, Bangladesh faced a daunting task when they were at 26-6 in their reply to Pakistan’s first innings score of 274. A remarkable fightback led by Liton Das, who scored 138, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who contributed 78, saw Bangladesh reach a respectable 262. This recovery was pivotal, with Liton and Mehidy forming a crucial seventh-wicket partnership of 165 runs.
In Pakistan’s innings, Nahid Hasan delivered a standout performance by dismissing key batsmen, including the Pakistan captain and Babar Azam, showcasing his talent and playing a vital role in the series.
Overall, Bangladesh’s comprehensive series sweep against Pakistan is a testament to their resilience and skill, marking a historic achievement for the team.