Pakistan Batting Falters in First Innings of Sylhet Test

Opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy’s fluent half-century helped Bangladesh seize firm control of the second Test, closing day two in Sylhet with a commanding lead of 156 runs over Pakistan.

After bowling Pakistan out for 232 in their first innings to secure a 46-run lead, Bangladesh reached 110-3 at stumps. Joy, who was out for a duck in the first innings, anchored the batting with a brisk 52 off 64 balls before being dismissed by Mohammad Abbas. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto remained unbeaten on 13 at the close of play.

Earlier, Pakistan’s batting lineup faltered, unable to build on their overnight score. Babar Azam provided the only significant resistance with a well-made 68, but the visitors struggled to form crucial partnerships. Left-arm spinner Taijul Islam and fast bowler Nahid Rana were the chief destroyers for Bangladesh, each claiming three wickets, while Taskin Ahmed and Mehidy Hasan Miraz also chipped in with key dismissals.

Speaking after the day’s play, Babar Azam identified his and Salman Ali Agha’s wickets as the “turning point” that shifted the match’s momentum. He lamented the team’s inability to build partnerships despite conditions being favorable for batting. Azam also acknowledged a recurring issue where the team tends to collapse after losing one wicket, a problem he said players and coaches are actively working to resolve.

In Bangladesh’s second innings, Pakistan’s pacer Khurram Shahzad made late inroads, removing Tanzid Hasan for four and Mominul Haque for 30 in the final over of the day, leaving the match intriguingly poised ahead of day three.