RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s assistant coach, Azhar Mahmood, shared his insights on the ongoing Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh after the third day’s play at the Pindi Cricket Stadium. Mahmood described the current situation of the match as “even,” reflecting on Bangladesh’s resistance against Pakistan’s bowlers on a day that saw a determined performance from the visitors.
As the match heads into its crucial fourth day, Mahmood emphasized the importance of an early breakthrough for Pakistan on the morning of Day Four. He stated, “If we manage to get an early breakthrough tomorrow and secure a lead of up to 80 runs, we have a chance to create an opportunity for ourselves to win the match.” This sentiment highlights the strategic thinking within the Pakistan camp as they look to capitalize on any potential openings in the match.
Bangladesh ended the third day at 316 for five in reply to Pakistan’s 448 for six declared, a position that puts the visitors in a strong position but still within striking distance for Pakistan. The highlight of Bangladesh’s innings was the composed 93 from Shadman Islam, who narrowly missed out on a century. His partnership with Mominul Haque, who scored 50, was instrumental in stabilizing the Bangladesh innings after early setbacks.
Shadman’s dismissal, bowled by Mohammad Ali, came just seven runs short of his century, leaving Bangladesh at 199 for four. However, the unbroken 98-run partnership between Mushfiqur Rahim (55) and Litton Das (52) has further bolstered Bangladesh’s position, reducing Pakistan’s lead to just 132 runs with five wickets in hand. Both Mushfiqur and Litton played with confidence, exploiting a tired Pakistani bowling attack and adding crucial runs in the final session.