Tag: PAK vs BAN

Former cricketers have shared their assessments of Pakistan’s latest 2-0 defeat to Bangladesh in the two-match Test series. 

Pakistan were bowled out for 358 while chasing a daunting target of 437 despite a spirited resistance from Mohammad Rizwan on Wednesday at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Rizwan struck a fighting 94 before falling prey to Taijul Islam. The victory marked Bangladesh’s first-ever home Test series whitewash over Pakistan and followed their landmark clean sweep against the same opposition during Pakistan’s tour in 2024.

Spinner Taijul Islam starred with the ball, claiming six wickets in the fourth innings to crush Pakistan’s hopes of an unlikely chase.

Following the defeat, legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram congratulated Bangladesh for their remarkable victory, praising their approach.

“Really disappointed to see Pakistan beaten for the second time by Bangladesh, but full praise and marks to the winners as they played complete cricket,” he wrote on X.

“Bangladesh used to have low, slow and big turners but now they preparing great test pitches, helping their fast-rising pace bowlers who outpaced Pakistan. Bangladesh are now ready to compete against the best in this format. And what a talent Nahid Rana is treat to watch. Congrats Bangladesh,” he added.

Former Test batter Azhar Ali highlighted the long process behind Bangladesh’s success while urging Pakistan to improve across all forms of the game.

“This success is not overnight, it’s the result of a long process and the work done behind the scenes in developing players, improving systems, and backing them consistently. Pakistan, meanwhile, need improvement in all departments batting, bowling, fielding, and especially match fitness,” he said.

Meanwhile, commentator Ramiz Raja praised Najmul Hossain Shanto’s captaincy and expressed concern about Pakistan’s old fault lines that were widening each day.

“Congratulations to Bangladesh for not only challenging Pakistan in this series but challenging themselves to break the status quo of defensive home grown spin strategy to win on lively pitches . Shanto stands out in this transformation. He is a very impressive leader.”

“For Pakistan old fault lines are getting wider and wider . Action is needed to break the status quo!!,” Ramiz highlighted.

All-rounder Mohammad Hafeez mentioned a visible decline in the last four ICC events with the longer format reflecting actual issues.

“Biggest stakeholder of the game after country name are players as they play inside the ground. Credit & responsibility wise. Last 4 ICC events results & Test format decline are real. Some serious issues are there to resolve by administration,” he said.

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SYLHET: Pakistan all-rounder Salman Ali Agha has received an official reprimand from the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaching Level 1 of the Code of Conduct during the second Test against Bangladesh at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

The incident took place during Pakistan’s second innings on Tuesday after Salman was dismissed in the 82nd over of the chase. The all-rounder struck an advertising hoarding with his bat while walking back to the pavilion.

Consequently, he was found guilty of violating Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to the abuse of cricket equipment, ground equipment or fixtures during an international match.

The charge was laid by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Allahuddien Palekar, along with third umpire Kumar Dharmasena and fourth umpire Masudur Rahman Mukul.

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Salman Ali Agha accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Jeff Crowe, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.

In addition to the official reprimand, one demerit point has been added to Salman’s disciplinary record. It marks his second offence within 24 months, taking his tally to two demerit points overall.

Notably, his previous offence also came under the same article during an ODI against Bangladesh in Dhaka earlier this year.

Under ICC regulations, Level 1 offences carry penalties ranging from an official reprimand to a maximum fine of 50 percent of a player’s match fee, along with one or two demerit points.

READ: Shan Masood comments on captaincy future after Test series whitewash

SYLHET: Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood has addressed questions surrounding his future as skipper after his side suffered a 2-0 series defeat against Bangladesh in Sylhet on Wednesday.

The setback came on the back of another difficult red-ball outing for Pakistan, as they were beaten in both matches of the series despite moments where they appeared competitive.

Masood, who took over Pakistan’s Test leadership in 2023, has now overseen 16 matches as captain, winning four and losing 12.

During the post-match press conference, questions were raised about his record and whether he would consider stepping down from the role.

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In response, Masood said that any decisions regarding leadership and team direction lie with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), while reiterating that his focus remains on long-term improvement rather than short-term fixes.

“I took up the Test [captaincy] role to improve the red-ball cricket of Pakistan. Certain matters need to be discussed and debated with the board, and the final decision always rests with the board,” Masood said.

“My intention and purpose have always been to find ways to improve this team. You must always accept challenges and also embrace opportunities.”

Shan Masood also made it clear that his commitment to the side is not dependent on captaincy alone, adding that he continues to view representing Pakistan as a matter of pride and responsibility in any capacity.

“My effort will remain the same in any capacity. It is not necessary that I only speak while sitting in the captain’s chair or as a player,” he stated.

“We do not know where life takes us. Whatever the situation, this has always been my approach. I have worn this shirt with great pride and have set everything aside to work for this cause.”

Reflecting on the broader challenges, the left-hander pointed out the fine margins in Test cricket and how small errors often prove costly over the course of five days.

He called for greater discipline and improvement across all departments, rather than reactionary changes.

“Rather than change, we need to focus on how test cricket can be improved and what mistakes can be reduced, because, as I said earlier, there is no margin for error in Test cricket. In a five-day game, these mistakes become very costly,” he concluded.

READ: How did the Bangladesh series defeat affected Pakistan in WTC 2025-27?

SYLHET: Bangladesh completed a historic 2-0 Test series whitewash over Pakistan after sealing a 78-run victory in the second match at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.

Despite a spirited resistance from Mohammad Rizwan, who struck a fighting 94, Pakistan were bowled out for 358 while chasing a daunting target of 437.

The victory marked Bangladesh’s first-ever home Test series whitewash over Pakistan and followed their landmark clean sweep against the same opposition during Pakistan’s tour in 2024.

Bangladesh spinner Taijul Islam starred with the ball, claiming six wickets in the fourth innings to crush Pakistan’s hopes of an unlikely chase.

Pakistan resumed Day 5 at 316-7 with Rizwan unbeaten on 75 alongside Sajid Khan at 8, still needing 121 runs for victory.

After a brief rain interruption, the pair counterattacked positively and stitched together a valuable 54-run partnership, taking Pakistan beyond the 350-run mark and briefly frustrating the hosts.

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However, Taijul Islam delivered the decisive breakthrough when he dismissed Sajid Khan, who contributed a crucial 28 off 36 balls featuring five boundaries.

The wicket sparked a collapse as Pakistan failed to add any further runs to the total.

In the following over, Shoriful Islam removed Rizwan for 94 off 166 deliveries, ending the wicketkeeper batter’s determined stand, which included 10 boundaries.

Taijul then wrapped up the innings by dismissing Khurram Shahzad for a duck to seal Bangladesh’s memorable victory.

Alongside Taijul’s six-wicket haul, Nahid Rana claimed two wickets, while Shoriful Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz picked up one each.

WATCH: Mohammad Rizwan, Litton Das engaged in verbal spat

SYLHET: Pakistan batting coach Asad Shafiq remained confident despite an uphill task on the final day of the second Test against Bangladesh at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

Chasing a target of 437, the visitors will need 121 more runs with only three wickets in hand. Mohammad Rizwan 75* offers a flicker of hope alongside Sajid Khan (9*), whose first-innings cameo also adds to their cause.

Asad remained optimistic about Pakistan’s chances of avoiding a series whitewash and pulling off a record-breaking win.

“We can win this game. If you see today’s batting performance, we’re really hopeful, 120-odd runs are left, and Rizwan is batting, and the way Sajid played in the first innings, we are really hopeful,” he said.

The batting coach hailed the team’s fightback, saying such partnerships had been missing throughout the series.

“That’s an amazing comeback as a batting unit because we didn’t have those kinds of partnerships this series. These things we were missing as a batting unit, but it’s really good to see it’s coming off now. Our previous three innings this series were not that great, but the way a few of our players stood up today makes me very hopeful,” he added.

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Regarding skipper Shan Masood’s form, Asad praised his hard work and determination, highlighting his crucial knock at an important juncture of the game.

“He’s [Shan] trying really hard in the nets, and it’s just a matter of time that he does well. He batted really well, absorbed the pressure, and once he got loose deliveries, he really capitalised on that.”

Asad also described the Sylhet pitch as an ideal Test wicket, emphasizing the balance between bat and ball.

“I think this is the best Test match track you can have. There’s something for everyone. A bit of spin, and some seam movement for fast bowlers, especially with the new ball. As a batter you get the value of your shots. I think this is an excellent Test wicket,” he observed.

READ: WATCH: Mohammad Rizwan, Litton Das engaged in verbal spat

SYLHET: Pakistan batter Mohammd Rizwan and Bangladesh’s wicket-keeper Litton Das were involved in a heated exchange during the fourth day of the second Test at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

The incident happened soon after Rizwan completed his half-century in the 72nd over of Pakistan’s second innings.  Rizwan complained about the constant disturbance behind the sightscreen, but Das did not hold back and said that he was merely ‘acting’.

The remarks included ‘We will deduct 50 rupees for this overacting,’ and “You are acting well; you want to teach everyone.’ Another comment suggested, ‘His place in the team is confirmed, that’s why he is overacting.’

The remarks did not sit well with Rizwan, who reminded Das about his work.

‘This is not your work, it is mine or the umpires,’ replied Rizwan.

This was not the first time in the series that the two were involved in an argument. During the first Test, Litton Das was caught saying that ‘Rizwan has a bad reputation’ back home in Pakistan.

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He was also heard saying that Rizwan will not be able to set foot in Pakistan if he is dismissed here for playing a false shot.

Nonetheless, Pakistan ended the fourth day with 316-7, still requiring 121 more runs to level the series. Mohammad Rizwan scored 75 not out off 134 balls, including eight fours. Sajid Khan, on the other hand, remained unbeaten on nine, hitting two boundaries.

Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan kept the scoreboard ticking after tea, adding 96 more runs to their steady partnership. Both batters batted fluently, raising their fifties.

The pair took the total to 296, bringing down the target under the 200-run mark. However, it was the new ball that did the trick for the home side in an opposing way.

Taijul Islam struck gold, breaking the threatening 134 partnership with Agha’s wicket, who missed one through the gate. He made 71 off 102, striking six fours and a maximum.

After a couple of overs, Taijul removed Hasan Ali (0), caught at first slip to put his side in a dominant position at the close of the play.

For Bangladesh, Taijul Islam picked up four wickets.

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SYLHET: Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha’s fighting half-centuries kept Pakistan in the hunt for a record chase against Bangladesh in the second Test at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.

Pakistan managed to put up a fight and ended the fourth day’s play with 316-7. Mohammad Rizwan held firm with 75 not out off 134 balls, including eight fours. Sajid Khan, on the other hand, remained unbeaten on nine, hitting two boundaries.

Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan kept the scoreboard ticking after tea, adding 96 more runs to their steady partnership. Both batters batted fluently, raising their fifties.

The pair took the total to 296, bringing down the target under the 200-run mark. However, it was the new ball that did the trick for the home side in an opposing way.

Taijul Islam struck gold, breaking the threatening 134 partnership with Agha’s wicket, who missed one through the gate. He made 71 off 102, striking six fours and a maximum.

After a couple of overs, Taijul removed Hasan Ali (0), caught at first slip to put his side in a dominant position at the close of the play.

For Bangladesh, Taijul Islam picked up two wickets in the final session.

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At Tea, despite Shan Masood producing a fighting half-century, Pakistan remained under pressure at 200-5.

Pakistan were required another 237 runs to chase down a daunting 437-run target and level the two-match Test series. At the interval, Salman Ali Agha was unbeaten on 25, while Mohammad Rizwan stood firm on 15 as the visitors looked to keep their slim hopes alive.

Pakistan’s recovery was initially led by Shan Masood and Babar Azam, who extended their third-wicket partnership to 92 runs after lunch, following a difficult morning session.

The stand finally came to an end when Taijul Islam provided Bangladesh with the crucial breakthrough by dismissing Babar Azam for 47 off 52 deliveries.

Pakistan’s problems deepened soon after as Saud Shakeel could manage only six runs before departing, leaving the visitors under increasing pressure.

Shan Masood, who was battling on the other end and completed a gritty 71 off 116 balls, fell prey to Taijul in the next over, triggering another setback for Pakistan.

Following the back-to-back wickets, Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan combined cautiously to guide Pakistan safely to the Tea interval without further damage.

Earlier in the day, Pakistan resumed their mammoth chase from 0-0 but lost opener Abdullah Fazal early after Nahid Rana broke the opening stand with the score on 27.

The hosts tightened their grip further when Mehidy Hasan Miraz dismissed debutant Azan Awais for 21, reducing Pakistan to 41-2.

However, Shan Masood and Babar Azam steadied the innings through a composed partnership that carried Pakistan to Lunch at 101-2.

Earlier on Day 3, Bangladesh had posted 390 in their second innings, largely powered by Mushfiqur Rahim, who struck a record-breaking 14th Test century to put the hosts firmly in command of the match.

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SYLHET: Pakistan’s fast bowling coach Umar Gul expressed confidence in his side’s ability to chase down a mammoth target against Bangladesh in the second Test.

Pakistan need to make history by chasing a 437-run target — the highest successful chase in Test history with 10 wickets remaining.

Earlier in the match, Bangladesh set Pakistan a strong target, led by Mushfiqur Rahim’s innings of 137 off 233 balls, with 12 fours and a six.

Pakistan ended the day’s proceedings without scoring a run in two overs and will resume on Tuesday with openers Abdullah Fazal and Azan Awais at the crease.

Gul spoke to the media at the end of the third day, saying there is ample time left and a draw appeared unlikely.

“We still have two days left in the match, and there is a chance of rain as well, so there is plenty of time remaining. The result is still open, and it does not look like a draw is likely,” he told reporters.

“If we bat through both days continuously, we have a real chance of chasing the target. Both teams still have an opportunity to win, and in cricket anything is possible,” he added.

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He highlighted the importance of big partnerships in a bid to chase the daunting target and said Pakistan were mentally prepared for the challenge of chasing it.

“A target of 437 requires two to three strong partnerships. We are mentally ready to chase it and will give our best effort to achieve the target,” Gul stated.

The bowling coach observed that the Sylhet surface had become more batting-friendly after the first two days, adding that Pakistan bowlers had been unfortunate and had not used the review system effectively.

“The pitch offered help to bowlers on day one with moisture and swing, but became much better for batting on days two and three. Bangladesh’s batters played very well, while our bowlers were unfortunate and also did not use the review system effectively,” he continued.

Regarding the speed of fast bowlers, Gul pointed to the lack of Test cricket as a key factor behind underwhelming performance. He said that in red-ball cricket, bowlers lose rhythm due to limited matches and playing fewer Tests made it difficult to maintain consistency.

“In red-ball cricket, our bowlers lose rhythm due to limited Test matches. Unlike the PSL, pace drops in longer formats, and playing fewer Tests every six months makes it difficult to maintain consistency. Heat and humidity also make conditions challenging,” he said.

“Regardless of the format, pace is always important in cricket, and maintaining intensity is key at this level,” he concluded.

READ: Umar Gul clarifies viral clip involving Shaheen Afridi

SYLHET: Pakistan fast bowling coach Umar Gul has clarified the viral video involving pacer Shaheen Afridi during the second Test against Bangladesh at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.

A day earlier, Shaheen Afridi was seen in an animated discussion with Umar Gul on the sidelines of the Test match. The clip quickly gained traction on social media, with many fans accusing Shaheen of disrespecting Umar Gul.

However, Gul explained the discussion in the press conference at the end of the third day.

“I think yesterday, when I woke up, somebody had tagged me on ‘X.’ It showed that Shaheen was not listening to the coach,” he told reporters.

What really happened between Umar Gul and Shaheen Afridi? Heated moment or normal discussion? #pakvban #cricket #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/vLMkrfyvLc

— Urooj Jawed🇵🇰 (@uroojjawed12) May 17, 2026

“It was being shown as if Shaheen Shah Afridi was not listening to the coach and that he was being sent onto the field,” he added.

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Gul clarified that the situation was actually related to the moment when Hasan Ali had fallen and suffered a blow to the head.

“In reality, it was about the moment when Hasan Ali had fallen and suffered a blow to the head, while Shaheen was sitting outside. Normally, whenever Shaheen bowls, he tapes his arm beforehand for protection,” the 43-year-old revealed.

“I think a concussion replacement takes around half an hour. The match referee informed you that you have to make a decision within that half-hour window,” he informed.

The bowling coach added that Shaheen was being told that if Hasan’s condition turned out to be serious, then he would be the only available option, so he was asked to start taping up.

“He was being told that if Hasan’s condition turned out to be serious, then Shaheen would be our only option, so he should start taping up. By that time, Sarfaraz Ahmed was also coming downstairs,” he clarified.

“Sarfaraz told me that Hasan had been hit on the head, so it appeared as though Shaheen was saying, ‘Is everything alright mentally?’”

He said that the clip had been circulating on social media since the previous day, but there was nothing of that sort, and they were unaware that the camera was filming them.

“This clip has been circulating on social media since yesterday, but there was nothing like that. We did not know the camera was filming us,” Gul concluded.

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SYLHET: Pakistan will be chasing a daunting target of 437 on Day 4 after Mushfiqur Rahim produced a career-defining knock to steer Bangladesh to 390 all out on the third day of the second Test at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Monday.

Play ended early on Day 3 due to poor light, with Pakistan reaching 0-0 after facing just two overs in their fourth-innings chase before the umpires called stumps.

The day, however, belonged to Mushfiqur, who registered a record-breaking 14th Test century, the most by any Bangladesh batter, before finishing with a magnificent 137 off 233 balls, decorated with 12 fours and a six.

Bangladesh’s innings was built around resilience in the middle and lower order, with Mushfiqur anchoring key stands under pressure from Pakistan’s attack.

He added a crucial 77-run partnership with Taijul Islam in the third session, frustrating Pakistan’s bowlers and pushing the lead ahead.

Taijul contributed a gritty 22 before falling to Sajid Khan, while Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam added useful runs in the lower order.

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Hasan Ali removed Taskin after a brief resistance, while Sajid Khan wrapped up the innings by dismissing Shoriful and Mushfiqur, ending Bangladesh’s innings at 390.

For Pakistan, Khurram Shahzad was the standout bowler with figures of 4 for 86, while Sajid Khan claimed three wickets. Hasan Ali picked up two, and Mohammad Abbas chipped in with one wicket.

Earlier in the day, Bangladesh resumed the day at 110-3 but suffered an early setback when captain Najmul Hossain Shanto fell to Khurram Shahzad after scoring 15 off 46 deliveries.

Pakistan looked to build pressure following the breakthrough, but the experienced pair of Litton and Mushfiqur steadied the innings with a composed partnership.

The duo first guided Bangladesh past the 150-run mark with a measured 50-run stand before continuing to frustrate Pakistan’s bowlers through disciplined batting.

Their unbroken 68-run partnership carried Bangladesh safely to Lunch without any further damage and placed the hosts firmly in command of the contest heading into the remainder of Day 3.

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