National ( The cow news digital ) Pakistan fought back strongly on the second day of the opening Test against Bangladesh, reaching 179 for 1 at stumps in response to the hosts’ first-innings total of 413 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
Bangladesh had earlier been bowled out for 413 shortly after the lunch break, with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto scoring a commanding 101 and Mominul Haque contributing 91. Their innings provided the home side with a strong platform after winning the toss and opting to bat first.
Pakistan’s bowling effort was led by a standout performance from Mohammad Abbas, who claimed five wickets, dismantling the Bangladeshi middle and lower order. Shaheen Shah Afridi supported with three wickets, while Hasan Ali and Noman Ali picked up one wicket each.
In reply, Pakistan’s innings began with an impressive opening partnership between debutant Azaan Owais and Imam-ul-Haq. The pair added 106 runs before Imam was dismissed for 45, providing a steady start against a disciplined Bangladesh attack.
Another debutant, Abdullah Fazal, then joined Azaan Owais at the crease, and together they added a further 73 runs for the second wicket. By the end of play, Pakistan stood at 179 for 1, still trailing by 234 runs but in a strong position to push back into the contest.
Azaan Owais remained unbeaten on 85, playing a composed and confident innings on debut, while Abdullah Fazal was not out on 37. Their partnership ensured Pakistan ended the day without further damage after losing Imam earlier in the innings.
The pitch at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium offered early assistance to bowlers, but conditions eased as the day progressed, allowing Pakistan’s top order to settle and accumulate runs steadily.
With two full days remaining, the match is evenly poised. Bangladesh will look to strike early on day three to regain control, while Pakistan aim to close the gap and build a substantial first-innings reply.
The contest remains crucial in the context of the series, with both sides seeking momentum in the longer format. Analysts suggest the first session of day three could prove decisive in shaping the direction of the Test.
