After a strong declaration from Pakistan, Bangladesh started their first innings on Day 2 of the 1st Test in Rawalpindi cautiously. Despite losing early wickets, they managed to end the day at 27/0, trailing behind Pakistan's mammoth 448 runs. Pakistan's pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah kept a tight grip on the Bangladeshi batsmen, who now face a huge challenge in the remainder of the match. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan fell just short of a double century, with a strong partnership with Saud Shakeel laying the foundation for their impressive score.
Pakistan has taken control of the first Test against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi, declaring their first innings at 448 runs and leaving the visitors with a daunting task ahead.
Day 2 Recap
Resuming their innings on 335/2, Pakistan added 113 runs before declaring. Mohammad Rizwan fell agonizingly short of a double century, scoring 192 off 237 balls. Saud Shakeel, who scored 96 overnight, played a solid supporting role with 118 off 182 deliveries.
Bangladesh began their innings cautiously, with openers Zakir Hasan and Mahmudul Hasan Joy scoring 15 and 12, respectively, before the close of play. Pakistan's pacers, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, kept the pressure on, creating several chances but failing to break through.
Background
The two-match Test series is Bangladesh's first in Pakistan since 2012. The visitors have never won a Test match in the country, losing all three previous encounters.
Pakistan, on the other hand, has dominated Test cricket at home in recent years, winning 15 of their last 17 matches. They are currently ranked fifth in the ICC Test rankings, while Bangladesh is ninth.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Why did Pakistan declare their innings?
Pakistan's declaration was strategic, aimed at giving their bowlers ample time to dismiss Bangladesh's batsmen. By batting for nearly 165 overs, they also denied Bangladesh valuable time to build a competitive total.
2. How impressive was Rizwan's performance?
Rizwan's 192 was his highest Test score and the second-highest individual score by a Pakistani batsman at home. He played with great determination and patience, providing the backbone of Pakistan's innings.
3. Can Bangladesh recover from the deficit?
Bangladesh faces an uphill battle to chase down Pakistan's mammoth total. They need to bat patiently and score consistently, while also putting pressure on Pakistan's bowlers. The pitch is expected to remain good for batting, but the challenge will be immense.
4. What are the key battles to watch in the Test?
The battle between Shaheen Afridi and Shakib Al Hasan will be crucial. Afridi is one of the most dangerous fast bowlers in the world, while Shakib is Bangladesh's most experienced and influential player. The contest between Mushfiqur Rahim and Yasir Shah will also be intriguing, as the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman takes on Pakistan's premier off-spinner.
5. What is the significance of this series for Bangladesh?
This series represents a major opportunity for Bangladesh to improve their Test record against subcontinental sides. They have never won a Test match in Pakistan, India, or Sri Lanka, and a positive result in this series would be a significant achievement.
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