RAWALPINDI: Bangladesh has set a commanding lead of 117 runs over Pakistan after being bowled out for 565 on the fourth day of the first Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The remarkable innings was spearheaded by veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim, whose unbeaten 191 proved instrumental in establishing Bangladesh’s advantage.
Starting the day at 316-5, with Mushfiqur Rahim and Liton Das at the crease, Bangladesh resumed their innings on Saturday. Liton Das, who was playing at a brisk pace, was dismissed early in the day by Naseem Shah, with Mohammad Rizwan taking the catch behind the stumps. However, Rahim’s resilience and skill ensured that the innings continued to flourish.
Rahim’s innings, which spanned 341 balls and included 22 boundaries and a six, was a testament to his grit and determination. He was supported by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who contributed 77 runs from 179 balls. Their partnership was crucial, pushing the visitors to a total of 565 and leaving Pakistan with a daunting target.
Rahim came close to scoring his fourth double century but was dismissed for 191 by Mohammad Ali. Despite falling short of the double-century milestone, Rahim’s innings was pivotal in putting Pakistan on the backfoot.
After Rahim’s departure, Pakistan swiftly wrapped up Bangladesh’s innings. Shaheen Afridi played a key role, removing Hasan Mahmud and Miraz, while Naseem Shah claimed the final wicket of Shoriful Islam, who had struck a quickfire 22 off 14 balls. Pakistan’s bowlers managed to dismiss Bangladesh within 565 runs, but the visitors had already established a significant lead.
The ongoing Test match is part of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25, with both teams aiming to enhance their standings on the WTC points table. Historically, Pakistan has had the upper hand in Test encounters with Bangladesh, having won 12 out of 13 matches between the two teams, with one ending in a draw.
Pakistan will need a strong response to overcome the 117-run deficit. The Green Shirts will be looking to their batters to deliver a resilient performance to chase down the target and secure a favorable position in this Test series.
Pakistan Playing XI
Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Ali, Khurram Shahzad
Bangladesh Playing XI
Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Shadman Islam, Zakir Hasan, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana
