Bangladesh’s relentless bowling attack has put Pakistan on the brink of defeat in the second Test in Rawalpindi. Resuming on 9 for 2, Pakistan lost four wickets in the morning session to slip to 117 for 6, leaving them with a slender lead of 129 runs.
Fast bowler Nahid Rana was the tormentor-in-chief, claiming three wickets for 22 runs in a devastating spell. He dismissed Shan Masood, Babar Azam, and Saud Shakeel in quick succession, leaving Pakistan reeling.
Saim Ayub and Masood had started the day positively, adding 34 runs in the first 6.2 overs. However, Ayub’s loose drive off Taskin Ahmed brought about his downfall, with Najmul Hossain Shanto taking a sharp catch at mid-off.
Babar Azam, who had been struggling for form, was trapped in front by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, but replays showed the ball was spinning past the leg stump.
Rana’s introduction into the attack proved decisive. He first removed Masood, who edged a drive to the wicketkeeper. Babar followed soon after, edging to first slip. Shakeel’s dismissal, caught by Litton Das, left Pakistan in deep trouble.
Mohammad Rizwan, who was dropped on his first ball, has been the lone bright spot for Pakistan. He has played with determination and grit, hitting boundaries to keep the scoreboard ticking. Salman Agha has provided valuable support, ensuring Pakistan did not lose any further wickets before lunch.
Bangladesh will be confident of completing a 2-0 series sweep if they can dismiss Pakistan cheaply in the afternoon session. The hosts, on the other hand, need to bat with patience and resilience to save the match.
