After a long and painful tour of Bangladesh, Pakistan managed to chalk up their first win.
After winning the 2nd Test by an impressive 328 runs, within 4 days, they secured the series 1-0. This was after losing the warm up game, 3 ODIs, a T20 match and drawing the 1st Test.
Pakistan salvaged some much needed respect and built up some confidence to end on a high.
At Mirpur, Dhaka Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bowl. Pakistan team changes included seamer Imran Khan in for Z. Babar.
Pakistan has to thank a few early no balls which led to two disallowed catches. Also Bangladesh seamer Shahadat Hussain became injured and was unable to take part in the rest of the match.
Pakistan dominated with the bat, reaching a total of 557/8 before declaring. Vice Captain Azhar Ali continued his good form to score his highest test score and first double hundred, reaching a patient 226. Veteran Younis Khan ably assisted with 148, this was his 29th century. A Pakistan test record.
Asad Shafiq contributed well with 107.
In reply Bangladesh made 203 all out. Pakistan bowlers also found some improved form with Wahab Riaz 3/73 and Yasir Shah 3/58.
With a huge lead of 354 runs, Misbah ul Haq defensively decided against enforcing the follow on.
In return Pakistan’s usual batting collapse made its expected entry, falling to 195/6 declared. Misbah ul Haq made a brisk 82 runs off 72 balls.
Bangladesh were set 549 to win with plenty of time remaining in the Test.
Smelling victory and with the bowlers new found form, Pakistan were hopeful of this isolated win.
Bangladesh crumbled to 221. With all the Pakistan bowlers taking wickets. Yasir Shah stood out with 4/73.
Pakistan sealed victory by a massive 328 runs.
After such a dismal tour in Banglashesh, Pakistan gained some respect by winning the Test and the series.
There is such a fine line between hero and zero in this sport.
Pakistan’s Test team have performed and now rank 3rd in the world. However the ODI team needs attention to pick up the required results.
Player of the Match and the Series was awarded to Azhar Ali.
Congratulations to both Pakistan and Bangladesh for an entertaining tour.
