Bangladesh moved within touching distance of a historic Test series sweep over Pakistan after a dominant fourth day in the second Test in Sylhet. Chasing a mammoth target of 437 runs, Pakistan reached stumps at 316/7, still requiring 121 runs with only three wickets in hand. Left-arm spinner Taijul Islam was the standout performer, claiming four crucial wickets to leave Bangladesh on the brink of victory.
Taijul Islam Breaks Key Partnership
Taijul Islam delivered a match-defining spell, breaking the dangerous 134-run partnership between Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha. He dismissed Agha for 71 with a clever slider before later removing Hasan Ali for a duck. Rizwan remained unbeaten on 75, anchoring Pakistan's slim hopes of an improbable chase. Sajid Khan was unbeaten on 8 at the other end.
Pakistan's Resistance and Bangladesh's Response
Earlier, Pakistan's middle order showed resilience through a gritty partnership between Rizwan and Agha, reviving hopes after the visitors had slipped to 162/6. However, Bangladesh consistently struck at key moments. Fast bowler Nahid Rana impressed with figures of 2/58, using raw pace to trouble the batters. He dismissed Abdullah Fazal early, while Mehidy Hasan trapped Azan Awais lbw. Shan Masood scored a composed 71, and Babar Azam added 47, but Bangladesh's bowlers maintained relentless pressure.
Bangladesh's Dominance with Bat and Ball
Bangladesh set up the massive target after posting 390 in their second innings, powered by Mushfiqur Rahim's superb 137. In the first innings, Litton Das scored 126 to help Bangladesh recover from 278 before bowling Pakistan out for 232. Having already won the first Test by 104 runs, Bangladesh now stand just three wickets away from a second consecutive Test series sweep over Pakistan.
The Final Day Equation
With three wickets remaining, Pakistan need 121 runs to win, a target that would be the highest successful chase in Test history. No team has ever chased more than 418 runs to win a Test match. Bangladesh will rely on Taijul Islam to exploit the fifth-day pitch wear, while Rizwan must shield the tail and farm the strike. The team that controls the opening session will likely claim victory.
Join us for the final day's play as Bangladesh aim to complete a memorable series whitewash.
