MAY 09 (V7N) - The opening Test between Bangladesh and Pakistan at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium shifted dramatically on Day 2, as the hosts’ initial dominance was checked by a resilient Pakistani fightback. Despite starting the day in a commanding position at 301-4, Bangladesh’s batting momentum stalled against a disciplined bowling attack, eventually folding for 413. The visitors then seized the initiative with the bat, closing the day at 179-1 and trailing by 237 runs, leaving the match finely poised as it heads into the third day.

The morning session belonged to Pakistani pacer Mohammad Abbas, whose "old school" approach of relentless accuracy outside off-stump dismantled the middle and lower order. Abbas claimed a masterful 5-92, his sixth five-wicket haul in Test cricket, utilizing the subtle movement of the Mirpur pitch to full effect. While veteran Mushfiqur Rahim reached a personal milestone—surpassing Tamim Iqbal with his 42nd fifty-plus score in Tests (71)—he found little support as Abbas removed Liton Das (33), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Taijul Islam in quick succession. A late, aggressive cameo from Taskin Ahmed (28 off 19 balls) helped push the total past 400, but the momentum had clearly shifted.

Pakistan’s response was headlined by a composed and confident display from their debutant openers. Azan Awais, playing with remarkable poise, remained unbeaten on 85 at the close of play, anchoring the innings with positive intent. He was well-supported initially by Imam-ul-Haque, who contributed 45 to a 106-run opening partnership before being trapped leg-before by off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Following Imam’s departure, fellow debutant Abdullah Fazal overcame an initial struggle against the new ball to finish the day unbeaten on 37.

Bangladesh’s frustrations were compounded by a lapse in the field; Taskin Ahmed managed to induce an edge from Fazal, but the chance was grassed by Shadman Islam at gully. This missed opportunity allowed the debutant pair to build an unbeaten 73-run stand, frustrating the Bangladeshi bowlers who struggled to find the same penetration Abbas had displayed earlier. As the sun set on Day 2, the hosts were left to rue a lack of clinical execution with both the ball and in the field, while Pakistan walked away with the psychological edge.

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