Mushfiqur’s record century sets Pakistan an imposing 427-run chase
Pakistan requires a record-breaking chase of 437 runs to win the second and final Test after Bangladesh dominated day three in Sylhet. The hosts were bowled out for 390 in their second innings, setting a daunting target to level the series. At stumps, Pakistan’s openers Abdullah Fazal and Azan Awais safely navigated two overs before bad light ended play with the score at 0-0.
The day belonged to veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim, who anchored the Bangladesh innings with a magnificent 137 off 233 deliveries. His masterful knock marked his 14th Test century, surpassing Mominul Haque for the most by a Bangladeshi batsman. Mushfiqur built two crucial partnerships, adding 123 runs for the fifth wicket with Litton Das, who scored a valuable 69, and a further 77 with Taijul Islam (22).
Other notable contributions from opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy (52) and Mominul Haque (30) helped swell Bangladesh’s total and their overall lead. For Pakistan, pacer Khurram Shahzad was the most successful bowler, finishing with figures of 4-86, while off-spinner Sajid Khan claimed three wickets, including the final one of Mushfiqur to wrap up the innings.
The hosts established their dominance earlier in the match, securing a vital 46-run first-innings lead. After recovering from a precarious 116-6, Bangladesh posted 278, largely thanks to a Litton Das century (126). In reply, Pakistan were dismissed for 232, with Babar Azam top-scoring with 68 and Sajid Khan providing late resistance with a quickfire 38. Bowlers Nahid Rana and Taijul Islam took three wickets each for Bangladesh.
Pakistan now faces a monumental task on a pitch beginning to offer assistance to the bowlers. A successful chase would require surpassing the highest in Test history (418) and Pakistan’s own record of 377. Despite the odds, pace bowling coach Umar Gul remained optimistic, stating, “If we bat through the full duration, there is a chance to win… you have to be brave and play positive cricket.”
