Rain Threatens to Disrupt Pakistan’s Test Hopes as Bangladesh Lead 1-0
The ongoing Test series between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Rawalpindi is under threat from rain, with the visitors leading 1-0. Pakistan cricket is in a precarious position, facing the possibility of a home series defeat against Bangladesh, a team that gave them a surprising defeat last week.
During much of the first Test, Pakistan’s frustration grew as they anticipated a draw that would hinder their efforts to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. However, things took a turn for the worse when Pakistan not only lost but also had points docked for slow over rates, leaving them near the bottom of the WTC table.
A home series defeat to Bangladesh would be a significant setback, especially considering that Bangladesh had only won six away Tests in 25 years before this series. Pakistan captain Shan Masood, who has lost all four Tests he’s led, now finds himself under pressure to secure a win in the second Test. With tougher challenges against England and South Africa on the horizon, Pakistan must avoid handing over this Test series trophy to Bangladesh.
However, the weather in Rawalpindi is complicating matters. Rain has already forced the cancellation of practice sessions, and more is forecast for the first day of the Test. Pakistan is hesitant to confirm their final playing XI, with spinner Abrar Ahmed and pacer Mir Hamza both in contention for the match.
Bangladesh, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, played a near-perfect game in the first Test, outplaying and outthinking the hosts. They made smart decisions, like ensuring they had spinners available for the final day and not declaring their innings early despite concerns about rain. Their ten-wicket victory was well-deserved, and they are now in a strong position to win their first-ever Test series against Pakistan.
Pakistan’s red-ball coach, Jason Gillespie, emphasized the need for his team to be disciplined and improve their over rates in the second Test. Meanwhile, Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusinghe is confident that his team can continue their strong performance.
In the spotlight are Babar Azam and Mushfiqur Rahim. Babar, who has been struggling with form, needs to step up in this crucial Test, while Mushfiqur played a key role in Bangladesh’s victory with his solid batting and leadership.
As for team news, Pakistan has left out Shaheen Afridi from the squad, while Bangladesh is likely to bring in fast bowler Taskin Ahmed. The pitch in Rawalpindi is expected to be pace-friendly, but with rain in the forecast, the conditions could favor Bangladesh, who only need a draw to win the series.
Key Stats and Quotes:
- Mushfiqur Rahim was named Player of the Match in the first Test and has been a part of all seven of Bangladesh’s away Test wins.
- Babar Azam has been struggling in Tests, averaging just 21.15 in 13 innings since the start of 2023.
Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie emphasized the need to improve over rates, stating, “We need to be better and get through our overs quicker. Our opposition likes to call for gloves and drinks at regular intervals, but we need to control what we can and maintain our energy levels.”
