Opening batter Shadman Islam fell agonizingly short of a century, but his composed 93 played a crucial role in helping Bangladesh reach 316 for five at the end of the third day’s play in the first Test against Pakistan at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Bangladesh now trails Pakistan’s first innings total of 448 for six declared by 132 runs with five wickets still in hand.
Shadman, who had been a steady anchor for his side, was bowled by fast bowler Mohammad Ali just seven runs short of what would have been his maiden Test century. His 183-ball innings, adorned with 12 boundaries, laid the foundation for Bangladesh’s strong response.
Despite Shadman’s departure with the score at 199 for four, Bangladesh was able to consolidate thanks to an unbroken 98-run partnership between Mushfiqur Rahim (55 not out) and Litton Das (52 not out). The duo took full advantage of a tiring Pakistan bowling attack in the final session, adding 117 runs in 26 overs and reducing the deficit significantly.
Mushfiqur’s patient 122-ball innings, featuring seven fours, was complemented by Litton’s aggressive knock, which included eight fours and a six off just 58 deliveries. The pair’s fluent stroke play in the evening session highlighted the tourists’ intent to take control of the match.
Earlier in the day, Bangladesh resumed their innings at 27 for no loss but quickly found themselves at 53 for two. However, Shadman, in partnership with Mominul Haque, steadied the innings with a 94-run third-wicket stand. Mominul scored a brisk 50 off 76 balls before Khurram Shahzad’s delivery uprooted his off stump, leaving Pakistan in need of breakthroughs.
Khurram Shahzad was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan, finishing the day with figures of two for 47. Pakistan’s spinners, who bowled 20 of the 92 overs faced by Bangladesh, found little success on a pitch that offered less assistance than on the opening day. Saim Ayub, making his Test debut, managed to dismiss Shakib Al Hasan for 15 in his first over.
As the match heads into its fourth day, Bangladesh will look to further close the gap and possibly surpass Pakistan’s total, while the hosts will be keen to make early inroads to regain control.
Scores in brief (Day 3 of 5):
- Pakistan (1st innings): 448-6d (Mohammad Rizwan 171 not out, Saud Shakeel 141, Saim Ayub 56, Shaheen Shah Afridi 29 not out; Hasan Mahmud 2-70, Shoriful Islam 2-77)
- Bangladesh (1st innings): 316-5, 92 overs (Shadman Islam 93, Mushfiqur Rahim 55 not out, Litton Das 52 not out, Mominul Haque 50; Khurram Shahzad 2-47)
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