Bangladesh has achieved a historic milestone in their cricketing journey by securing their first-ever Test victory against Pakistan. The ten-wicket triumph in Rawalpindi is not just a win, but a statement, as the visitors overpowered Pakistan in the first Test of the series, handing the hosts their fifth defeat in ten winless home matches.
The Turning Point
The match was anchored by a sublime performance from Mushfiqur Rahim, who scored a brilliant 191 in Bangladesh’s first innings, propelling them to a commanding total of 565. Pakistan had initially set a strong foundation with a declaration at 448 for 6, led by Mohammad Rizwan’s 171 and Saud Shakeel’s 141, but they crumbled in their second innings, managing only 146.
Day 5: The Decisive Blow
On the fifth day, Bangladesh’s bowlers, led by the experienced duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, decimated Pakistan’s batting lineup. Mehidy was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 4 for 21, while Shakib provided crucial support with 3 for 44. The fast bowlers set the tone early, with Nahid Rana’s blistering pace rattling Pakistan’s top order, including the prized wicket of Babar Azam, who fell for 22 after struggling against Nahid’s relentless short-pitched deliveries.
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Pakistan’s innings never recovered from the early blows, and despite a valiant 51 from Mohammad Rizwan, they could only muster a lead of 30 runs. Mehidy and Shakib wrapped up the innings swiftly after lunch, leaving Bangladesh with a simple target of 30.
Chasing Victory
Bangladesh’s openers, Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam, ensured there were no hiccups in the chase. Zakir struck three boundaries in his unbeaten 15, sealing the victory with a sweep to the fine leg fence, as Bangladesh reached 30 for no loss in just 6.3 overs.
A Historic Win
This victory is a significant achievement for Bangladesh, marking only their third Test win on foreign soil in the past seven years. The win also highlights the team’s growth and resilience, as they capitalized on Pakistan’s vulnerabilities and executed their plans flawlessly.
Pakistan, on the other hand, continues to struggle in home conditions, a stark contrast to their earlier dominance. The loss in Rawalpindi will prompt serious introspection as they seek to end their winless streak in the second Test.
As the teams prepare for the next match, Bangladesh will be buoyed by this landmark victory, while Pakistan faces the pressure of bouncing back on home turf.
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