Bangladesh opener Shadman Islam showcased his batting prowess on the third day of the first Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi. The 29-year-old left-hander played a crucial innings, scoring an unbeaten 53 runs, leading Bangladesh to 134-2 at lunch.
Shadman’s performance was a testament to his resilience and skill. He faced a challenging Pakistani pace attack on a pitch that had slowed down considerably. Despite the tough conditions, Shadman managed to hit six boundaries, including a well-timed pull shot off Naseem Shah’s delivery just before the interval, which brought up his third Test half-century.
The day started with Bangladesh resuming their innings at 27-0. However, they faced early setbacks as Zakir Hasan was dismissed for 12 runs, caught brilliantly by wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan off Naseem Shah’s bowling. Soon after, skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto was bowled by Khurram Shahzad for 16 runs, leaving Bangladesh at 53-2.
Shadman then formed a solid partnership with Mominul Haque, who also batted confidently, scoring 45 not out. Together, they added 81 runs for the third wicket, stabilizing the innings and giving Bangladesh a fighting chance. Mominul’s innings included four boundaries, and he looked comfortable against the Pakistani bowlers.
Pakistan’s bowlers, including Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Ali, and Khurram Shahzad, tried to maintain pressure with fuller lengths and disciplined bowling. However, they missed the services of a frontline spinner, and part-time bowler Agha Salman couldn’t make a significant impact in his eight overs.
Pakistan had declared their first innings at 448-6, with centuries from Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel. Bangladesh still trails by 314 runs, but Shadman and Mominul’s partnership has given them hope of a strong reply.
Shadman’s innings was not just about runs but also about determination and grit. His ability to handle pressure and play crucial innings has been a significant asset for Bangladesh. As the match progresses, Bangladesh will look to build on this foundation and put up a competitive total.
The Rawalpindi pitch, which initially offered assistance to the bowlers, has now eased out, making batting relatively easier. This change in conditions could work in Bangladesh’s favor as they aim to close the gap and challenge Pakistan’s first innings total.