Pakistan’s disappointing run in Test cricket continued as Bangladesh secured yet another memorable victory over them in Mirpur, Dhaka.
Ahead of the opening Test of the two match series, Pakistan’s ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi had confidently spoken about targeting a place in the ICC World Test Championship final. Later in the match, T20 skipper Salman Ali Agha suggested Pakistan would chase down any 260 run target in 60 overs with ease.
However, Bangladesh turned the contest completely in their favor. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto declared the second innings at 240 for 9, leaving Pakistan with a target of 268. Pakistan’s batting once again collapsed under pressure as they were dismissed for only 163, suffering a crushing 104 run defeat.
The victory was historic for Bangladesh, marking their first ever Test win over Pakistan at home and their third straight Test triumph against the visitors following the 2-0 series win in Pakistan during 2024.
At the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh remained in control for most of the match despite Pakistan captain Shan Masood winning the toss.
Najmul Hossain Shanto starred with the bat, scoring 101 and 87 in the two innings to claim Player of the Match honors. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Nahid Rana also played major roles with the ball through match winning bowling performances.
Pakistan did have a few positives. Debutant Azan Awais announced himself with an impressive century, while Abdullah Fazal delivered consistent performances in both innings after replacing the injured Babar Azam. Veteran bowler Mohammad Abbas also contributed with six wickets.
Still, Pakistan’s experienced players failed to deliver when needed most. Shan Masood, Saud Shakeel, and Mohammad Rizwan all struggled badly. Missed chances behind the stumps, weak bowling spells, and irresponsible batting decisions proved costly for the visitors.
Despite spinner Nauman Ali reaching the milestone of 100 Test wickets, the overall performance once again raised serious questions about Pakistan’s direction in the longest format of the game.
