Bangladesh’s historic Test victory over Pakistan in Karachi was orchestrated by their young pace duo, Hasan Mahmud and Nahid Rana. The 24-year-old Mahmud and 21-year-old Rana combined for nine wickets in the second innings, setting up the 185-run chase.
Mahmud and Rana’s performance was particularly impressive given the challenging conditions. “As fast bowlers, you have to take advantage [of conditions] and keep working hard together,” said Mahmud. “It’s important to get the benefit from your fast bowlers as well as spinners.”
While Mahmud and Rana stole the spotlight, the match and series awards went to more experienced players. Litton Das, who scored 138 in the first innings, received the match award. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who tallied 155 runs and ten wickets, earned the series award.
Litton and Mehidy’s partnership in the first innings, when Bangladesh were struggling at 26 for 6, proved crucial. Litton’s 138 from No. 7 and Mehidy’s 78 from No. 8 kept Bangladesh in the game.
“The way me and Miraz [were] batting, the credit actually goes to Miraz,” said Litton. “He faced 20 balls and killed their momentum.”
After that stand, Litton formed another partnership with Mahmud, contributing 69 runs. “When Hasan came, I didn’t have any scoring opportunities,” said Litton. “So I took my time and thought I had to play the over, not the ramp or anything.”
Bangladesh’s bowling coach, Andre Adams, praised the young fast-bowling duo. “Very proud. Very young group,” said Adams. “They showed some good control second innings particularly.”
Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto credited the team’s success to their work ethic. “They wanted to win. That was very important for our team,” said Shanto. “The way Shadman batted, the 93 innings, and this innings, the way Zakir approached the innings, the momentum came to us.”
Mehidy Hasan Miraz dedicated his Player-of-the-Series award to the student protestors who were martyred in Bangladesh. “I want to gift this award to his family,” said Mehidy.
