SYLHET: The second Test has reached a thrilling climax as Pakistan need 121 more runs for victory on the final day, while Bangladesh require just 3 wickets to seal a tense contest.
Chasing a massive target of 437 runs, Pakistan ended the fourth day at 316 for 7 in their second innings, leaving the match perfectly poised heading into the final day.
Pakistan’s chase began on a shaky note with early dismissals of Abdullah Fazal (6) and Azaan Awais (21), reducing them to 41 for 2. However, captain Shan Masood and Babar Azam revived the innings with a 92-run partnership.
Babar scored 47 before getting out, while Shan Masood made a fighting 71. Saud Shakeel once again fell cheaply for 6 runs.
After the top order collapse, Salman Ali Agha and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan steadied the innings with a crucial 134-run stand for the sixth wicket. Salman scored 71 before being dismissed, while Rizwan remained unbeaten on 75 at stumps.
Pakistan also lost Hasan Ali without scoring as wickets continued to fall at regular intervals.
For Bangladesh, Taijul Islam starred with 4 wickets, while Nahid Rana took 2 and Mehidy Hasan Miraz claimed 1.
Earlier, Bangladesh posted 278 in the first innings, led by Litton Das’ century, while Pakistan replied with 232, with Babar Azam top-scoring on 68.
Bangladesh then added 390 in their second innings, setting Pakistan a target of 437. Mushfiqur Rahim’s brilliant 137 anchored the innings, supported by Mehidy Hasan Miraz (69) and Mahmudul Hasan Joy (52).
With both sides still in contention, the Sylhet Test is set for a tense and dramatic final day finish.
