Bangladesh had faced defeat in 12 out of 13 Test matches against Pakistan before securing a historic 2-0 series victory in Rawalpindi in 2024. The Tigers are now eyeing a potential fourth consecutive win over Pakistan after asserting control on Day 2 of the final Test in Sylhet.
The key to this turnaround has been Bangladesh’s diverse and disciplined bowling attack, particularly their pace bowlers who have consistently outperformed Pakistan’s counterparts.
The bowlers played a crucial role in Bangladesh’s triumph in Mirpur and once again set the stage in Sylhet. After restricting Pakistan to 232 in response to their 278, Bangladesh ended the day at 110 for three in their second innings, holding a lead of 156 runs with seven wickets in hand.
A disappointed Pakistani journalist, the sole reporter covering the series, questioned whether another 2-0 series result was likely. His response was resolute: “Indeed, that seems inevitable…Pakistan does not merit a victory.”
While victory is not guaranteed for Bangladesh yet, they are firmly in control. Although Mominul Haque’s dismissal on the final ball of the day dampened spirits slightly, with three days remaining and the potential to extend their lead beyond 300, Pakistan faces an uphill battle to change the course of the match.
The contrasting paths of the two nations in cricket are evident. Bangladesh possess a versatile bowling attack capable of adapting to various conditions, while Pakistan is operating with only four specialist bowlers and have struggled beyond the experienced Mohammad Abbas.
This contrast has played out throughout the series. In Rawalpindi last year, Bangladeshi pacers claimed 21 wickets in two Tests, overshadowing Pakistan’s tally of 10. Despite changes in the Pakistani bowling lineup, the balance has not shifted in their favor.
Bangladesh’s top order has vulnerabilities, and their first-innings total was rescued by Litton Das and the lower-order batsmen. Pakistan, who started the day unscathed, collapsed on the second morning. Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam led the charge for Bangladesh, stifling any Pakistani attempts at recovery.
Nahid Rana’s dismissal of Babar Azam was a turning point in the match. Babar, who looked fluent with his 68 runs, fell at a crucial juncture to Nahid’s bowling. This marked the third time in as many Tests that Nahid has dismissed Babar, restricting the star batsman’s impact against him.
Nahid attributed the success to collective team effort and disciplined bowling tactics. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto shared a team photo on social media with the caption “Gangster Paradise,” reflecting the team’s confident and dominant mood. With the bowlers applying relentless pressure and the lower-order batsmen ready to contribute, Bangladesh aims to maintain their stronghold in the match.