This marks only the second time in history
that Pakistan has been whitewashed by
an opposing team on its own soil
Sports Reporter
Rawalpindi: Bangladesh defeated Pakistan in the second Test at Pindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi, completing a 2-0 whitewash in the series. This marks only the second time in history that Pakistan has been whitewashed by an opposing team on its own soil.
In a dramatic chase, Bangladesh reached the target of 185 runs, losing just four wickets. Openers Zakir Hasan (40) and Shadman Islam (24) made steady starts, while Najmul Hossain Shanto (38) and Mominul Haque (34) contributed crucial runs. For Pakistan, bowlers Mir Hamza, Khurram Shahzad, Abrar Ahmed, and Salman Ali Agha took one wicket each.
Key Performances: Bangladesh Shines with Bat and Ball
Litton Das was named the Player of the Match for his outstanding 138-run performance in the first innings. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who scored 155 runs and took 10 wickets across the series, was declared the Player of the Series. Pakistan’s batting lineup struggled in the second innings, collapsing for just 172 runs and setting a modest target for Bangladesh. Despite a solid effort by Muhammad Rizwan (43) and Salman Ali Agha (47*), the team faltered, with Hasan Mahmud taking a five-wicket haul for Bangladesh.
Bangladesh’s First Innings: Overcoming a Collapse
Earlier in the match, Bangladesh was in trouble at 26 for 6 but was rescued by a century from Litton Das and a valuable 78 from Mehidy Hasan Miraz, allowing them to post a total of 261. Pakistan’s Khurram Shahzad excelled with the ball, taking six wickets, while Mir Hamza and Salman Ali Agha claimed two wickets each.
Pakistan’s Struggles: Batting Failures and Missed Opportunities
In the first innings, Pakistan managed 274 runs, with half-centuries from Saim Ayub (58), Shan Masood (57), and Salman Ali Agha (54). However, Bangladesh’s Mehidy Hasan Miraz responded with five wickets, supported by Taskin Ahmed and Shakib Al Hasan. The visitors eventually bowled Pakistan out for a mere 172 in the second innings, setting up a comfortable chase.
Historic Whitewash and Implications
This series win marks the first time Bangladesh has completed a Test series clean sweep against an Asian side in their own country. It also serves as a stark reminder of Pakistan’s vulnerabilities, following their previous home series whitewash against England in 2022.
Bangladesh’s Reaction and Future Prospects
Reflecting on the series, Litton Das credited the entire team and coaching staff for their hard work and resilience. “We believed in ourselves even when things were tough,” he said. The win highlights Bangladesh’s growing strength in international cricket, especially in challenging conditions.
Pakistan’s Missed Pacer
Pakistan’s defeat came without their star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who missed the match due to personal reasons. The absence of key players and poor performances will lead to questions and reflections within the Pakistan cricket setup.
This historic win for Bangladesh will be remembered as a defining moment in their cricket history and a significant setback for Pakistan.
