Bangladesh Take Control as Pakistan Face Tough Chase in Sylhet Test

Bangladesh national cricket team tightened their grip on the second Test against Pakistan national cricket team after setting the visitors a daunting target of 437 runs at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Pakistan’s opening pair successfully negotiated a difficult final session on day three and will resume on day four with Abdullah Fazal and Azan Awais unbeaten at the crease.

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh were bowled out for 390 in 102.2 overs, thanks largely to an outstanding innings from veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim.

Rahim produced a superb 137 from 233 deliveries, striking 12 boundaries and one six in a composed and authoritative innings before eventually falling to Sajid Khan.

He received strong support from Litton Das, who contributed an aggressive 69 off 92 balls, including five fours.

Opening batsman Mahmudul Hasan Joy also played an important role with a fluent 52 from 64 deliveries, an innings featuring 10 boundaries.

Bangladesh strengthened their advantage through several key partnerships involving Rahim, particularly alongside Litton Das and later Taijul Islam.

Mominul Haque added a valuable 30 from 60 balls with three boundaries, while Taijul Islam chipped in with 22 runs from 51 deliveries.

Further lower-order contributions came from Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Shoriful Islam, who scored 19 and 12 respectively.

For Pakistan, fast bowler Khurram Shahzad was the standout performer with the ball, finishing with figures of 4 for 86 from 20 overs.

Spinner Sajid Khan claimed three wickets, while Hasan Ali picked up two dismissals. Veteran seamer Mohammad Abbas also chipped in with one wicket.

Pakistan now face a significant challenge on the remaining two days if they are to successfully chase down the target or salvage a draw and level the Test series.