Bangladesh closed in on victory against Pakistan in Sylhet, despite resistance from Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha. The visitors’ fightback tested Bangladesh’s patience on the fourth day of the second and final Test. The Tigers still ended the day with their noses ahead.
Bangladesh seemed to be sensing the finish line approaching when they reduced Pakistan to five wickets down in pursuit of a daunting 437-run target. Rizwan and Salman added 134 runs for the sixth wicket to frustrate Bangladesh’s bowlers and shift momentum towards the visitors.
Rizwan’s Resistance and Time-Consuming Routines
Rizwan’s time-consuming routines increasingly became the talking point of the day. Rizwan repeatedly called for towels, drinks and treatment, slowing the pace of the game throughout the final session. With only two minutes remaining in the day’s scheduled play and Bangladesh preparing to bowl one final over, Rizwan once again halted proceedings by asking for water and towels.
The delays added further spice to a contest that finally carried the edge and tension expected from a gripping Test match. Heated exchanges involving Rizwan, Litton Das and Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto reflected the rising intensity.
Taijul Islam Breaks Through
Just when Pakistan appeared to be gaining genuine hope, Taijul Islam once again stepped forward to swing the momentum back Bangladesh’s way.
“There was some excitement in the dugout because we thought that was the breakthrough we needed. It came through Taijul; there was excitement. I was not tense personally, but a couple of guys around might have been,” Bangladesh pace bowling coach Shaun Tait admitted after the day’s play.
Left-arm spinner Taijul broke the crucial stand by dismissing Salman late in the day before removing Hasan Ali shortly afterwards, ensuring the Tigers regained control before stumps.
Pakistan closed on 316 for seven, still requiring another 121 runs with only three wickets remaining in what would need to become a record fourth-innings chase in Test cricket.
Earlier Partnerships
Pakistan’s recovery had begun through solid partnerships involving Babar Azam and Shan Masood. After Bangladesh struck twice early, the experienced duo steadied the innings and ensured Pakistan did not completely fold under pressure.
Bangladesh’s bowlers were not at their sharpest throughout the day.
Taskin Ahmed, after his impressive displays earlier in the series, ended the day without mention in the source.