On a rain-affected opening day of the first Test against Bangladesh at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan found themselves in early trouble but managed to reach 158 for four in 41 overs, thanks to gritty half-centuries from Saim Ayub and Saud Shakeel.
The day began with a delayed start due to a wet outfield, pushing the first session into the afternoon. Opting to bowl first, Bangladesh capitalized on the damp conditions, quickly reducing Pakistan to 16-3 within the first 8.2 overs. Abdullah Shafique was the first to fall, caught at gully off Hasan Mahmud in the fourth over. Captain Shan Masood followed shortly, dismissed for just six runs by Shoriful Islam. The pressure mounted when Babar Azam departed for a two-ball duck, leaving Pakistan reeling.
However, the young Saim Ayub, making his maiden Test fifty, and the reliable Saud Shakeel combined for a 98-run stand, stabilizing the innings. Saim’s 56 off 98 balls, including four boundaries and a six, was a key contribution before he was caught in the slips off Hasan. Saud remained unbeaten on 57, partnering with Mohammad Rizwan, who contributed 24 not out, to guide Pakistan to a more secure position by the close of play.
With Shoriful Islam and Hasan Mahmud claiming two wickets each, the second day promises to be crucial as Pakistan looks to build on their recovery. The action is set to resume at 9:45 AM, with Saud and Rizwan continuing their efforts at the crease.
Scores in brief: Pakistan 158-4, 41 overs (Saud Shakeel 57 not out, Saim Ayub 56, Mohammad Rizwan 24 not out; Shoriful Islam 2-30, Hasan Mahmud 2-33)
Leave a Reply