Pakistan lose both openers in pursuit of 437 against Bangladesh in Sylhet Test

SYLHET: Pakistan were 101-2 at lunch on the fourth day of the second Test against Bangladesh at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, with the visitors still needing 335 runs to reach a target of 437.

Beginning the day at 0-0, Pakistan lost both openers in the opening session. Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal put on 27 runs before Nahid Rana dismissed Fazal for 6. Awais then made 21 before he was removed by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, leaving Pakistan at 41-2.

After the early setbacks, captain Shan Masood and Babar Azam rebuilt the innings and guided Pakistan to 101-2 by the lunch interval. Shan was unbeaten on 41, while Babar was not out on 24, with eight wickets still in hand.

Bangladesh build strong position

Bangladesh had earlier posted 278 in their first innings after slipping to 116-6. Their recovery was led by Litton Das, who top-scored with 126 from 159 balls, striking 16 fours and two sixes as he anchored the innings and added valuable runs with the lower order.

For Pakistan, Khurram Shahzad was the most successful bowler in the first innings, taking 4-81 in 17 overs. Mohammad Abbas claimed three wickets, while Hasan Ali picked up two.

Pakistan trail after first innings

In response, Pakistan were dismissed for 232, allowing Bangladesh to secure a first-innings lead of 46 runs. Babar top-scored for Pakistan with 68 off 84 deliveries, while Sajid Khan added 38 from 28 balls lower down the order.

Bangladesh’s bowling effort in that innings was shared by Nahid Rana and Taijul Islam, who took three wickets each. Taskin Ahmed and Mehidy Hasan Miraz chipped in with two wickets apiece.

Mushfiqur century sets up big chase

Bangladesh were then bowled out for 390 in their second innings to set Pakistan a challenging target of 437. Mushfiqur Rahim’s century was central to the hosts’ total.

Khurram again led Pakistan’s bowling figures, returning 4-86 in 20 overs, while Sajid Khan took three wickets.

At lunch on day four, Pakistan remained in the contest but faced a demanding task in the remaining sessions, needing 335 more runs with Shan and Babar at the crease after the loss of both openers.