Bangladesh have set a challenging target of 268 runs for Pakistan in the ongoing Mirpur Test match at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto declared the second innings at 240/9, setting up an exciting final phase of the Test. With a 27-run first-innings lead already in hand, the hosts have put themselves in a strong position to push for victory. The match is finely balanced as Pakistan now face a demanding chase on a wearing pitch in Dhaka.

First Innings Summary

Pakistan were bowled out for 386 runs in their first innings after showing strong resistance from their top and middle order. In reply, Bangladesh posted a solid 413 runs, earning a crucial 27-run lead. Pakistan’s innings was highlighted by opener Azaan Awais, who played a brilliant knock of 103 runs, while Abdullah Fazal (60), Salman Agha (58), and Mohammad Rizwan (59) also contributed valuable runs. For Bangladesh, Mehidy Hasan Miraz was the star bowler, picking up a five-wicket haul. Taskin Ahmed and Taijul Islam supported well with two wickets each.

 Bangladesh Second Innings Performance

Bangladesh resumed their second innings at 152/3, with the intention of building a strong lead quickly. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto once again led from the front, scoring 87 runs, adding to his first-innings century (101).

Mominul Haque also played a crucial knock of 56 runs, helping Bangladesh maintain momentum throughout the innings. Pakistan bowlers fought back strongly. Hasan Ali and Noman Ali were the standout performers, taking 3 wickets each, keeping Bangladesh under pressure during key phases of the innings.

Key Moments of the Day

One of the highlights of the day came early when Mushfiqur Rahim started with a boundary off Hasan Ali, playing a lucky outside edge that flew past the slip cordon. However, his innings ended soon after when he was dismissed for 22 runs, caught by Shan Masood.

Another dramatic moment came when Liton Das survived an LBW appeal after taking a review. The third umpire found a faint edge, overturning the on-field decision. Despite the reprieve, Liton could only manage 11 runs before getting out later.

Captain Shanto’s Bold Declaration

With Bangladesh looking to push for a result, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto declared the innings at 240/9, setting Pakistan a target of 268 runs. The decision came after Bangladesh ensured a strong enough lead, while also leaving enough time to bowl Pakistan out on a deteriorating pitch.

Match Situation

At the end of Bangladesh’s second innings, the match is delicately poised:

• Bangladesh lead: 267 runs (approx)
• Target for Pakistan: 268 runs
• Pitch: Slow and turning, favoring spinners
• Result: Still open, with both teams in contention

Pakistan will need a disciplined batting effort to chase down the target, while Bangladesh will rely heavily on their spin attack to finish the game.

Bowling Highlights

• Hasan Ali: 3 wickets
• Noman Ali: 3 wickets
• Mehidy Hasan Miraz: 5 wickets (first innings)
• Taskin Ahmed: 2 wickets
• Taijul Islam: 2 wickets

The bowlers from both sides have played a crucial role in keeping the match evenly balanced. The Mirpur Test is set for a thrilling finish as Bangladesh have set Pakistan a competitive 268-run target. With spin-friendly conditions and pressure building, the final innings promises a tense battle between bat and ball.

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Bangladesh created a landmark moment in their Test cricket history by defeating Pakistan by 104 runs in the Mirpur Test, securing their first-ever home Test victory against Pakistan. The match, played at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium, witnessed dominant performances, dramatic collapses, and a match-winning spell that turned the game in Bangladesh’s favour on the final day.

Bangladesh set the tone with strong first innings

After losing the toss, Bangladesh were asked to bat first on a pitch that initially looked balanced but gradually started assisting bowlers. The home side showed patience and discipline, putting up a commanding 413 runs in their first innings.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto led from the front with a composed and technically sound innings of 101 runs, anchoring the batting lineup. His century came at a crucial time when early wickets could have put Bangladesh under pressure. Alongside him, the middle order contributed steadily, ensuring Pakistan were kept on the back foot for long periods. Bangladesh’s batting effort was a clear statement of intent, showing maturity and control against a strong Pakistani bowling attack.

🇵🇰 Pakistan respond strongly with debut brilliance

In reply, Pakistan showed resilience and fought back strongly. Debutant opener Azaan Awais made an immediate impact on international cricket, scoring a brilliant 103-run century. His innings stood out for confidence, timing, and patience, helping Pakistan stay competitive in the match.

Supporting him, Pakistan’s middle order also delivered valuable contributions. Abdullah Faseeh scored 60 runs, while Salman Agha (58) and Mohammad Rizwan (59) added stability to the innings. Despite these efforts, Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 386 runs, giving Bangladesh a narrow but important 27-run first-innings lead. For Bangladesh, Mehidy Hasan Miraz was the standout bowler, claiming 5 wickets, while Taijul Islam and Taskin Ahmed picked up two wickets each, maintaining pressure throughout.

Bangladesh build pressure with second innings declaration

In their second innings, Bangladesh played with intent and tactical awareness. Starting with a 27-run lead, they looked to build a match-winning total rather than just survival runs. Captain Shanto once again played a crucial role, scoring 87 runs in a controlled and responsible innings. His leadership with the bat ensured Bangladesh stayed ahead in the game.

Mominul Haque added 56 runs, providing stability in the middle order. Bangladesh continued to rotate strike and accelerate at the right moments before declaring their innings at 240/9, setting Pakistan a challenging target of 268 runs on a deteriorating pitch. The declaration showed Bangladesh’s confidence in their bowling attack and belief that they could force a result.

Nahid Rana produces career-defining spell

The final innings belonged to Nahid Rana, who delivered a sensational fast-bowling performance under pressure. From the very beginning, he bowled with pace, aggression, and accuracy, troubling Pakistan’s top order consistently.

Rana eventually finished with a brilliant five-wicket haul, dismantling the Pakistani batting lineup almost single-handedly in the second innings. His spell included crucial breakthroughs at key moments, preventing any recovery from the opposition.

Pakistan, chasing 268, struggled to build partnerships and were eventually bowled out for 163 runs. The defining moment came when Rana dismissed Shaheen Afridi, sealing Bangladesh’s historic victory. Afridi attempted a pull shot but edged the ball, which was safely caught by the fielder in the slips. Pakistan even reviewed the decision, but the dismissal stood, confirming Bangladesh’s win.

 Pakistan collapse under pressure

Despite a few promising starts, Pakistan’s batting collapsed under sustained pressure from Bangladesh’s bowling attack. Only Abdul Faseeh (66 runs) showed resistance in the final innings, while others failed to convert starts into big scores.

The Pakistani team struggled against both pace and spin, with Bangladesh maintaining tight lines and sharp fielding throughout the innings. The absence of long partnerships proved costly, ultimately leading to their defeat.

 Key moments that shaped the match

The Test match had several turning points that influenced the final outcome. Mushfiqur Rahim’s early lucky escape on Day 4 gave Bangladesh a steady start, although he could not convert it into a big innings. Litton Das also survived a close LBW decision via DRS, before eventually getting dismissed for a low score. These small moments added tension to an already competitive match. On the other hand, Pakistan’s first innings century by Azaan Awais was one of the highlights of the match, but it lacked sufficient support from the rest of the batting unit.

Historic win for Bangladesh cricket

With this 104-run victory, Bangladesh not only defeated Pakistan but also achieved a historic milestone—their first-ever home Test win against Pakistan. The victory will be remembered for its complete team effort, smart captaincy, and exceptional bowling performance.

Captain Shanto’s twin contributions with the bat, along with Nahid Rana’s match-winning five-wicket haul, stood out as the defining elements of the match. Bangladesh’s ability to maintain pressure across all five days reflected their growing maturity in Test cricket.

The Mirpur Test will go down as one of Bangladesh’s most memorable victories in red-ball cricket. It showcased their progress as a Test-playing nation capable of competing and winning against strong teams like Pakistan. This win not only boosts their confidence but also strengthens their position in international Test cricket, marking a new chapter in Bangladesh’s cricketing journey.

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