RAWALPINDI: Bangladesh displayed remarkable resilience on the third day of the first Test against Pakistan, closing at a strong 316 for five in response to Pakistan’s first-innings total of 448 for six declared. The standout performance of the day came from opening batter Shadman Islam, who anchored Bangladesh’s innings with an impressive knock of 93, narrowly missing out on a well-deserved century.
Shadman Islam, who has been in fine form, played a crucial role in stabilizing Bangladesh’s innings after the early loss of wickets. Resuming the day at 27 without loss, Bangladesh faced immediate pressure as Pakistan’s pace attack looked to exploit the early morning conditions. However, Shadman, displaying composure and technique, guided his team through a challenging phase.
His innings of 93 off 183 balls, decorated with 12 boundaries, was an exhibition of patience and elegance. Shadman’s ability to handle both pace and spin was evident as he built partnerships and kept the scoreboard ticking. However, his innings came to a heartbreaking end when he was bowled by Mohammad Ali, leaving Bangladesh at 199 for four. Despite falling short of his century, Shadman’s effort was instrumental in giving Bangladesh a solid platform.
Before Shadman’s dismissal, he was involved in a crucial 94-run partnership with Mominul Haque for the third wicket. Mominul, who scored a brisk 50 off 76 balls with five fours, provided the much-needed support to Shadman. His innings was cut short by Khurram Shahzad, who bowled a beauty to send Mominul’s off stump cartwheeling. Mominul’s half-century was vital in steadying Bangladesh after they had slipped to 53 for two, showing the depth of experience in Bangladesh’s middle order.
Youtube Video: PCB
After the loss of Shadman and Shakib Al Hasan, who was dismissed for 15 by debutant Saim Ayub, Bangladesh found themselves in a tricky position. However, the experienced duo of Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das took charge, leading a spirited fightback. The pair put together an unbeaten 98-run partnership for the sixth wicket, which was characterized by positive intent and aggressive stroke play.
Mushfiqur Rahim, one of Bangladesh’s most reliable batsmen, played a composed innings of 55 not out from 122 balls, including seven boundaries. His ability to rotate the strike and find gaps kept the pressure on Pakistan’s bowlers, particularly in the final session of the day.
Litton Das, on the other hand, was the aggressor, smashing 52 off just 58 balls, with eight fours and a six. His counter-attacking approach disrupted Pakistan’s bowling plans, especially as the bowlers began to tire on a pitch that had flattened out considerably. The duo’s partnership not only reduced the deficit but also provided Bangladesh with a strong platform to push for a competitive first-innings total.
