Pakistan closed Day 2 of the first Test match at Chattogram on 145/0 after bowling out Bangladesh for 330. They were on the back foot after Day 1, but Hasan Ali’s 5-51, followed by an unbroken 145-run opening-wicket stand between Abid Ali (93*) and debutant Abdullah Shafique (52*), put them into a strong position at the close of play.
The Pakistan openers batted for 57 overs – more than two sessions – on Day 2, but their team is not out of danger yet. They may approach the first hour of Day 3 with caution. Liton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim had a similar partnership on the opening day, but neither could add much to their overnight scores. Had Mehidy Hasan Miraz not scored an unbeaten 38, Bangladesh might not even gone past 300.
On Day 3, the onus will be on Taijul Islam and Miraz to provide early breakthroughs. Pakistan have formidable middle-order batters in Azhar Ali, Babar Azam, Fawad Alam and Mohammad Rizwan, a wicket may help Bangladesh regain the momentum. India had a similar sort of Day 3 against New Zealand at Kanpur, on 27 November, and Bangladesh must take inspiration from their performance if they want that first-innings lead.
Pakistan bat deep. With the start they have got in the first innings, anything below 350 will disappoint them. The pitch seems to be batting-friendly and is easy to play on.
Betway Fantasy Tips
- Back Abid to notch his fourth Test hundred.
- From Bangladesh, Mehidy holds the key.