Rawalpindi: Pakistan’s cricket team took firm control of the first Test match against Bangladesh at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, thanks to stellar performances by Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel. On the second day, Pakistan declared their first innings at an imposing 448 for six, leaving Bangladesh with an uphill task as they began their reply.
Resuming at an overnight score of 158 for four, Pakistan’s batsmen made the most of favorable conditions. Mohammad Rizwan, who started the day at 24, and Saud Shakeel, who resumed at 57, anchored the innings with a mammoth 240-run partnership for the fifth wicket. This stand proved to be the backbone of Pakistan’s innings, as both players notched up well-deserved centuries, putting Pakistan in a dominant position.
Mohammad Rizwan was the star of the day, scoring an unbeaten 171 off 239 balls. His innings was a masterclass in patience and shot selection, laced with 11 boundaries and three sixes. Rizwan, who has been in fine form, reached his third Test century and surpassed his previous best score of 115, which he made against South Africa. This knock also marked Rizwan’s second century at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, further establishing his affinity with the venue.
Rizwan’s innings was not without drama. He was dropped twice during his stay at the crease, giving Bangladesh a couple of missed opportunities to break his rhythm. Despite these lapses, Rizwan remained unfazed and continued to accumulate runs with precision.
Video: Pakistan Cricket Board
Saud Shakeel, Pakistan’s rising star, played an equally important role with his third Test century, scoring 141 off 261 balls. His innings was marked by nine boundaries and showcased his growing maturity as a middle-order batsman. Shakeel’s contribution was crucial, particularly after Pakistan’s top order faltered early on the first day, leaving the team in a precarious position at 16 for three.
Shakeel’s century was his first at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, following previous centuries in Karachi and Galle. His innings provided the stability Pakistan needed to build a substantial total, and his partnership with Rizwan effectively neutralized Bangladesh’s early advantage.
Pakistan’s decision to declare at 448 for six was a calculated move, allowing their bowlers enough time to attack Bangladesh’s batting lineup in the remaining sessions. Salman Ali Agha (19) and Shaheen Shah Afridi (29 not out) also contributed valuable runs in the lower order, with Shaheen hitting two sixes in his brief cameo.
Bangladesh’s bowlers struggled to contain Pakistan’s batsmen on a pitch that continued to offer assistance to the fast bowlers. Hasan Mahmud and Shoriful Islam, who had been effective on the first day, found it difficult to break through the Rizwan-Shakeel partnership. Both ended the innings with two wickets each, but the damage had already been done.
In response, Bangladesh’s openers, Shadman Islam and Zakir Hasan, managed to negotiate a tricky 12-over phase towards the end of the day, finishing at 27 without loss at stumps. While they successfully avoided any immediate setbacks, the pressure of Pakistan’s imposing total looms large as they look to make a solid start on Day 3.
Bangladesh’s task is cut out for them as they aim to navigate the challenging conditions and respond to Pakistan’s commanding first innings. The first session on Day 3 will be crucial for the visitors, as any early wickets could further tilt the match in Pakistan’s favor.
