2nd Test: Abbas, Shahzad put Pakistan in command against Bangladesh
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
Sylhet: Pakistan gained the upper hand against Bangladesh on the opening day of the second Test in Sylhet as Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad shared six wickets to leave the hosts struggling at 168 for 6 at tea. After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Shan Masood elected to field first under cloudy conditions, and the decision paid immediate dividends as the pace attack kept Bangladesh under pressure throughout the day. Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad delivered disciplined spells to dismantle the Bangladesh batting line-up. Abbas claimed 3-26, while Shahzad picked up 3-47 as Pakistan dominated both the morning and afternoon sessions. Pakistan struck early when Abbas dismissed Mahmudul Hasan Joy off the second ball of the innings. Debutant Tanzid Hasan and Mominul Haque briefly stabilised the innings with a steady partnership, but Abbas removed Tanzid before Shahzad dismissed Mominul to put Bangladesh under pressure. Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and experienced batter Mushfiqur Rahim then attempted to rebuild the innings with a cautious partnership. However, Pakistan regained control after lunch as Abbas forced Shanto to edge behind to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, who completed a sharp diving catch. Khurram Shahzad continued the pressure by trapping Mushfiqur Rahim lbw before removing Mehidy Hasan Miraz with a short-pitched delivery that resulted in a catch at fine leg. Despite the collapse, Litton Das offered resistance for Bangladesh with an unbeaten 42 at tea. He was supported by Taijul Islam as the pair added an important partnership to steady the innings and prevent further damage before the interval. Pakistan also faced a brief injury scare when Hasan Ali appeared to injure himself while attempting a catch off his own bowling. The fast bowler was taken off the field for medical attention but later returned to resume bowling. With Bangladesh six wickets down and Pakistan firmly in control, the visitors will aim to wrap up the innings quickly w