In a gripping Test match at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Mushfiqur Rahim’s monumental innings of 191 has left Pakistan with a challenging task as they chase a formidable target set by Bangladesh. Rahim’s performance is not only significant for its individual brilliance but also for its historical context and impact on the ongoing Test series.
Historic Performance by Mushfiqur Rahim
Mushfiqur Rahim’s innings of 191 is noteworthy for several reasons. As the second Bangladesh batter to be dismissed in the 190s—following Mohammad Ashraful’s 190—Rahim’s performance highlights a rare and prestigious achievement in the history of Bangladeshi cricket. His innings came in the context of Bangladesh’s reply to Pakistan’s formidable total of 448 for six declared, placing Rahim’s innings among the most memorable in recent Test history.
Rahim’s innings commenced with him resuming the fourth day’s play at an overnight score of 55. His resilience and skill were on full display as he faced a total of 341 deliveries, converting 22 into boundaries and one into a six. His innings spanned eight hours and 42 minutes, a testament to his endurance and concentration under pressure.
Partnership with Mehidy Hasan Miraz Breaks Records
Rahim’s standout performance was complemented by a remarkable partnership with Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Together, they forged a 196-run stand for the seventh wicket, breaking a 48-year-old record for the highest partnership against Pakistan. This surpassed the previous record of 186 runs set by Warren Lees and Sir Richard Hadlee in Karachi in 1976.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s contribution was also significant. Despite being dropped on 52 and 59, he managed to score a solid 77 from 179 balls, including six boundaries. His partnership with Rahim was pivotal in propelling Bangladesh to a total of 565, their third-highest score achieved outside of home soil.
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Pakistan’s Response and Day 4’s Play
When play resumed on the fourth day, Pakistan faced a daunting task. Trailing by 117 runs from Bangladesh’s first innings, Pakistan started with a promising but cautious approach. Abdullah Shafique and captain Shan Masood were at the crease, and by the end of the fourth day’s play, Pakistan had reached 23 for one, with Saim Ayub being dismissed early.
Pakistan’s bowling attack had some success on the fourth day, with Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi making notable contributions. Shah dismissed Litton Das, who added only four runs to his overnight score of 52. However, Pakistan had to wait another 56 overs before taking another wicket.
Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah led the attack effectively. Afridi, who recently celebrated the birth of his first child, took two wickets for 88 runs. Naseem Shah emerged as the most successful bowler with figures of 3 for 93 from 27.3 overs, while Mohammad Ali and Khurram Shahzad each took two wickets. Salman Ali Agha, though wicketless, was unfortunate with two catches being dropped off his bowling.
Key Moments and Statistical Highlights
- Mushfiqur Rahim’s Milestone: Rahim’s innings of 191 not out is the second highest individual score by a Bangladeshi player in Test cricket. His remarkable performance included 22 fours and one six, showcasing his proficiency and determination.
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s Contribution: Miraz’s 77, although not the highest score in the innings, was crucial in building the partnership that set a new record for the seventh wicket.
- Pakistan’s Bowling Performance: Despite the impressive effort from Pakistan’s bowlers, including Shah and Afridi, Bangladesh’s total proved to be a substantial challenge. The drop catches and missed opportunities may prove costly as Pakistan continues their chase.
Looking Ahead
With the Test match moving into its final day, Pakistan faces a formidable task to chase down Bangladesh’s total and secure a victory. The balance of the match hinges on how effectively Pakistan’s batting line-up can respond to the challenge posed by Bangladesh’s bowlers.
Bangladesh, having set a daunting target, will look to their bowlers to deliver a performance similar to their batting display to secure a win. The final day promises to be a thrilling conclusion to what has been an exciting and competitive Test match.
As both teams prepare for the final day, cricket fans worldwide will be eagerly watching to see how the contest unfolds and whether Pakistan can overcome the substantial deficit or if Bangladesh will secure a memorable victory.
