Bangladesh tighten grip over Pakistan in second Test match in Sylhet
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
SYLHET – Bangladesh strengthened their hold over the second Test match against Pakistan on the third day, building a strong position with a solid batting performance in their second innings. At the time of reporting, Bangladesh were 203 for 4 in their second innings, extending their overall lead to 250 runs against Pakistan in the ongoing match. Resuming the day at 110 for 3, with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim at the crease, Bangladesh continued their innings before Pakistan struck early in the morning session. Shanto was dismissed for 15 runs at a team total of 115, falling LBW to Khurram Shahzad. Despite the setback, Bangladesh continued to add runs steadily to maintain control of the match. On the second day, Bangladesh ended their innings at 110 for 3. Mahmudul Hasan Joy scored 52, Mominul Haque made 30, and Tanzid Hasan was dismissed for 4. Shanto remained not out on 13 at stumps. For Pakistan, Khurram Shahzad took two wickets, while Mohammad Abbas claimed one. Pakistan were earlier bowled out for 232 runs in their first innings. After starting the second day at 21 without loss, they lost early wickets as Azaan Awais scored 13 and Abdullah Fazal made 9. Captain Shan Masood contributed 21, while Babar Azam top-scored with 68. Saud Shakeel scored 8, Salman Ali Agha made 21, and Mohammad Rizwan added 13. Hassan Ali scored 18, Sajid Khan made 38, Khurram Shahzad 10, while Mohammad Abbas was dismissed without scoring. For Bangladesh, Nahid Rana and Taijul Islam took three wickets each, while Taskin Ahmed and Mehidy Hasan Miraz claimed two wickets apiece. On the opening day, Bangladesh were bowled out for 278 in their first innings, with Litton Das playing a brilliant knock of 126. Pakistan’s bowlers Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, and Hassan Ali shared the wickets. Pakistan had reached 21 without loss at the end of day one after Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto elected to bat first upon winning the toss. Pakistan made three changes