Islamabad, Aug 22: Pakistan seized control of the opening Test match against Bangladesh with to individual tons from Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel, who were continuing their scorching form on the cricket arena.
In the afternoon session, the wicket-keeper batter achieved a significant milestone when he hit a delivery from Bangladeshi spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz past the covers to reach his third century on the Tsest.
With 12 boundaries in his calm knock that took 156 deliveries to complete, Rizwan proved his increasing strength in the lengthier format.
Day 2 saw Rizwan finish unbeaten at 108 to lead Pakistan’s innings into what looks to be a dominant position at stumps. Saud Shakeel, who also scored his third century in his eleventh Test match, matched his tenacity and gave Pakistan’s middle order an intimidating appearance.
The two had forged an important alliance, thwarting the Bangladeshi bowlers who found it difficult to establish themselves on a pitch that provided little help. Rizwan, who is renowned for his hard-charging style and keen wicket-keeping abilities, has proven to be a reliable player for Pakistan, particularly in trying circumstances.
He is a key component of Pakistan’s Test setup because of his ability to strike a balance between attack and defense. Day 3’s morning session will see the release of the second new ball, which Rizwan and Shakeel will be looking to use to further establish their dominance and give Pakistan the upper hand in this important Test match.
Pakistan, who are now leading the game, will want to put a lot of pressure on the visitors by going for a big first-inning total.
