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Historic Victory for Bangladesh as Pakistan Crumbles in Rawalpindi
In a stunning turn of events at Rawalpindi, Bangladesh achieved a historic milestone by securing their first-ever Test victory over Pakistan, winning by 10 wickets after a dramatic second-innings collapse by the hosts.
Bangladesh’s triumph was anchored by a masterclass from Mushfiqur Rahim, whose 191 off 341 balls propelled the visitors to a commanding first-innings total of 565, giving them a crucial 117-run lead. Despite a solid start by Pakistan, which saw them declare at 448-6 in their first innings, their second innings unraveled spectacularly as they were bowled out for just 146.
Pakistan's innings had initially been rescued by the heroics of Muhammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel, whose partnership of 240 runs lifted the team from a perilous 114-4. Rizwan's unbeaten 171 and Shakeel's 141 had seemed to put Pakistan in a strong position. However, their efforts were overshadowed by Bangladesh’s comprehensive all-round performance.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz played a pivotal role with both bat and ball, contributing a valuable 77 in Bangladesh’s first innings before dismantling Pakistan’s batting lineup with figures of 4-21 in the second innings. He was ably supported by Shakib Al Hasan, as the duo spun Pakistan into disarray, sharing seven wickets between them.
Bangladesh’s openers, Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam, faced little resistance as they chased down the modest target of 30, reaching it within seven overs. Zakir remained unbeaten on 15, while Shadman finished on nine not out, securing Bangladesh’s second overseas Test win in seven years.
The victory marks a significant achievement for Bangladesh, highlighting their growing prowess on the international stage. For Pakistan, however, the defeat extends a worrying trend of underperformance on home soil. They have now gone over three years without a Test win at home, with four losses and five draws since their last victory in February 2021.
As both teams prepare for the second and final Test in Karachi, starting on 30 August, Pakistan will be desperate to turn their fortunes around before England’s highly anticipated tour for three Tests in October. Bangladesh, meanwhile, will be riding high on confidence as they look to build on their historic win.
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