Pak vs Ban: First Test Day 3 - Bangladesh Fight Back
"Pak vs Ban" - First Test Day 3 saw an intense battle at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Bangladesh managed to hold their ground, ending the day at 316-5 in 92 overs. Although they trail by 132 runs, the visitors showed remarkable resilience and skill on the third day.
Bangladesh's Strong Start
Bangladesh began Day 3 at 27 for no loss, with Shadman Islam and Zakir Hasan at the crease. It wasn’t long before Pakistan made their move. In the 17th over, Hasan attempted a cover shot but ended up edging the ball to the wicketkeeper, Mohammad Rizwan. This early breakthrough gave Pakistan the momentum they needed. However, the game was far from over.
Pakistan's Bowlers Strike Back
After Hasan’s dismissal, Khurram Shahzad struck again, removing Bangladesh’s skipper, Najmul Hossain Shanto. This left Bangladesh at a shaky 53-2. But instead of crumbling, the visitors took a more cautious approach. Shadman Islam and Mominul Haque formed a crucial 81-run partnership, guiding Bangladesh to 134-2 by the end of the first session.
Pakistan’s bowlers didn't give up. Shahzad took another key wicket, dismissing Mominul Haque for a well-earned 50. Shadman, who was anchoring the innings, was bowled out for 93 by Mohammad Ali. I believe this was a critical moment in the match, as Pakistan needed to break this partnership to stay on top.
A Strong Comeback by Bangladesh
Just when Pakistan thought they had the upper hand, Bangladesh’s experienced duo, Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das began to turn the game around. They built a strong 98-run partnership, frustrating Pakistan's bowlers and fans alike. Both Rahim and Das played with determination, reaching their half-centuries before the end of the day.
By the close of play, Rahim remained unbeaten on 55 off 122 balls, while Das was not out at 52 off 58 balls. This partnership could be the key for Bangladesh to reduce the deficit on Day 4. In my opinion, if Bangladesh continues this momentum, it might pose a real challenge to Pakistan.
Pakistan's Dominance on Day 2
Looking back, Pakistan declared their first innings at a commanding 448-6 on Day 2. Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Shah Afridi were still on the crease when the declaration came. Rizwan’s unbeaten 171 and Saud Shakeel’s 141 were the highlights of the innings. The pair formed a massive 240-run partnership, which put Pakistan in a dominant position.
Shakeel’s patient innings included nine fours, and Rizwan’s knock was filled with class, hitting 11 fours and three sixes. I believe this partnership was a game-changer, setting the tone for Pakistan's dominance early in the match.
My Thoughts on the Match So Far
As I watched the events unfold, it became clear that this Test match was far from over. The "Pak vs Ban" series is part of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25, and both teams are eager to climb the WTC points table. Bangladesh has shown great resilience on Day 3, and I’m looking forward to seeing how they perform on Day 4 of the Pak vs Ban series.
In my view, Pakistan will need to strike early on the fourth day to regain control. However, if Rahim and Das continue their form, this match could head towards an exciting finish.
Playing XIs
Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Ali, Khurram Shahzad.
Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Shadman Islam, Zakir Hasan, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hassan Miraz, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana.
FAQs
1. How did Bangladesh perform on Day 3 of the first Test?
- Bangladesh ended Day 3 at 316-5, showing strong resistance against Pakistan’s bowling attack. They trail by 132 runs but have key players still at the crease.
2. Who were the standout performers for Bangladesh on Day 3?
- Shadman Islam scored 93 runs, and the partnership between Mushfiqur Rahim (55*) and Litton Das (52*) was crucial in stabilizing Bangladesh’s innings.
3. How did Pakistan fare on Day 2?
- Pakistan declared their innings at 448-6, with Saud Shakeel scoring 141 and Mohammad Rizwan remaining unbeaten at 171.
4. What are the stakes of this Test match?
- This Test is part of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25. Both Pakistan and Bangladesh are looking to improve their standings on the WTC points table.
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