Bangladesh secured a historic 2-0 Test series victory against Pakistan, marking their first-ever series win over the hosts with a six-wicket triumph in the second Test in Rawalpindi. This victory, achieved on Tuesday, signifies a monumental moment for Bangladesh cricket, showcasing their growth and resilience on the international stage.

Fifth Day Drama: Bangladesh Clinches Victory

Chasing a target of 185 runs, Bangladesh patiently worked their way to victory, losing just four wickets to reach the total 25 minutes before tea on the final day. The win not only sealed the match but also completed a 2-0 series sweep, a feat Bangladesh had never accomplished against Pakistan before.

Bangladesh’s captain played a crucial role in the modest chase, contributing 38 runs to steady the innings. Earlier on Day 5, Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam resumed play with Bangladesh needing 148 more runs to win. Zakir, after a brisk knock of 40 off 39 balls, was the first to fall, bowled by Mir Hamza. Shadman followed soon after, scoring 24 runs before being dismissed by Khurram Shahzad.

Despite these early setbacks, Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque mounted a strong recovery. Their unbeaten 52-run partnership carried Bangladesh to 122-2 by lunch, setting the stage for their eventual triumph.

Bangladesh’s Bowling Masterclass

Bangladesh’s victory was built on the back of a disciplined bowling performance, particularly on Day 4, where Hasan Mahmud’s five-wicket haul dismantled Pakistan’s batting lineup. Pakistan was bowled out for a meager 172 in their second innings, leaving Bangladesh with a relatively modest target.

Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and all-rounder Salman Ali Agha were the only Pakistani batsmen to show some resistance, scoring 43 and 47 runs respectively. However, their efforts were not enough to set a challenging total for Bangladesh.

Nahid Rana also played a pivotal role in the bowling attack, claiming four wickets and further restricting Pakistan’s chances of a comeback.

Khurram Shahzad’s Heroics in Vain

Despite Pakistan’s disappointing performance, Khurram Shahzad emerged as a standout performer with the ball. In Bangladesh’s first innings, he took six wickets for 90 runs, a performance that briefly gave Pakistan hope. Alongside Mir Hamza and Salman Ali Agha, who took two wickets each, Khurram’s spell left Bangladesh reeling at 26-6 before lunch on Day 3.

However, Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz orchestrated a remarkable recovery for Bangladesh. Their 165-run partnership was instrumental in taking Bangladesh to a total of 262. Mehidy’s 78 off 124 balls, including 12 boundaries and a six, complemented Litton’s gutsy century. Litton’s innings of 138 off 228 balls, studded with 13 boundaries and four sixes, was the backbone of Bangladesh’s first-innings score.

Early Dominance and Persistent Rain

The series was characterized by Bangladesh’s ability to capitalize on key moments, beginning with their bowling performance on Day 2, where they restricted Pakistan to 274. Mehidy Hasan Miraz led the charge with a five-wicket haul, supported by Taskin Ahmed’s three wickets.

Pakistan’s batting was led by Salman Ali Agha, who top-scored with 54 runs, and Shan Masood, who added 57. Despite these efforts, Pakistan struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Bangladesh bowling attack.

The series also saw interruptions, notably on the first day of the second Test, which was washed out due to persistent rain. However, Bangladesh remained focused and used every opportunity to assert their dominance.

A Historic Milestone for Bangladesh

This series win is a significant milestone for Bangladesh, demonstrating their growing stature in Test cricket. The 2-0 sweep over Pakistan, particularly in Pakistan’s home conditions, highlights Bangladesh’s progress and potential in the longer format of the game.

For Pakistan, the series raises concerns about consistency and mental toughness, especially when facing pressure situations. As they reflect on this historic defeat, the team will need to address these issues to bounce back in future series.

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