Sylhet: Rizwan and Salman Agha Fight Back as Pakistan Stay Alive in Thrilling Test Chase

Pakistan produced a gritty batting display in the second Test against Bangladesh at Sylhet, with Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha leading a determined fightback on Day 4. Despite being set a massive target, Pakistan ended the day still in contention thanks to a resilient partnership that kept hopes alive in a high-pressure chase. According to Beyond Time News, the match remains finely balanced heading into the final day.

Rizwan Anchors Pakistan’s Resistance

Mohammad Rizwan played a crucial unbeaten knock of 75 off 134 balls, holding Pakistan’s innings together under pressure. He struck eight boundaries and showed strong control as wickets fell around him.

Rizwan stayed calm at the crease and ensured Pakistan did not collapse during a tense final session. His innings became the backbone of Pakistan’s late resistance in Sylhet.

Salman Ali Agha’s Fighting Half-Century

Salman Ali Agha also delivered a vital performance, scoring 71 runs off 102 deliveries. He built a key partnership with Rizwan that brought Pakistan back into the contest after a difficult start.

The duo added 96 runs together after tea, keeping Pakistan’s chase alive and reducing the pressure of the massive target. Their stand helped Pakistan cross key phases without losing control.

Bangladesh Strike Back with Key Breakthroughs

Bangladesh regained momentum through left-arm spinner Taijul Islam, who once again proved decisive in the match.

He broke the dangerous partnership by dismissing Salman Ali Agha, who was bowled after missing a delivery that went through the gate. Taijul also removed Hasan Ali for a duck later in the innings.

According to Beyond Time News, Taijul’s timely wickets shifted momentum back in Bangladesh’s favour at a crucial stage.

Early Pressure on Pakistan’s Batting

Pakistan’s chase began under pressure after losing early wickets. Abdullah Fazal fell for a low score after Nahid Rana struck in the opening spell.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz added to Pakistan’s troubles by dismissing debutant Azan Awais, leaving the visitors struggling at 41-2.

Despite the shaky start, Shan Masood and Babar Azam rebuilt the innings with a solid 92-run partnership.

Shan Masood and Babar Azam Provide Stability

Shan Masood played a fighting innings of 71 off 116 balls, while Babar Azam contributed 47 off 52 deliveries.

Their partnership brought stability and helped Pakistan reach 101-2 at lunch. However, Bangladesh regained control after the break when Taijul Islam removed Babar Azam.

Shortly after, Saud Shakeel also fell cheaply for six runs, increasing Pakistan’s pressure once again.

Pakistan Rebuilds After Tea

At 200-5 during tea, Pakistan still needed 237 runs to chase down the target of 437.

Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha then combined carefully, ensuring Pakistan did not lose further wickets before the interval. Their partnership became the turning point that kept Pakistan’s hopes alive.

According to Beyond Time News, their calm approach under pressure was key to preventing a late collapse.

Bangladesh Set the Challenge with Strong Second Innings

Bangladesh had earlier posted 390 in their second innings, powered by a record-breaking century from Mushfiqur Rahim.

His performance helped Bangladesh build a strong position and set Pakistan a challenging target of 437 runs to level the series.

Read more:Rizwan, Salman Stabilise Pakistan After Collapse in Dhaka Test

Match Situation Heading into Final Day

Pakistan ended Day 4 at 316-7, still requiring runs with only a few wickets in hand. Rizwan remained unbeaten and will play a crucial role in determining the final outcome.

The match remains finely poised, with Bangladesh holding an advantage but Pakistan still fighting to stay alive in the series.

Conclusion

The second Test in Sylhet has turned into a gripping contest, with Pakistan showing resilience through Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha’s partnership. While Bangladesh remain in control, the visitors have kept the match alive heading into the final day.

According to Beyond Time News, the final outcome will depend on whether Pakistan’s lower order can support Rizwan in completing a remarkable chase.

FAQs

1. What score did Pakistan reach on Day 4?

Pakistan finished at 316-7 at the close of play.

2. Who was Pakistan’s top scorer?

Mohammad Rizwan remained unbeaten on 75.

3. What target is Pakistan chasing?

Pakistan is chasing 437 runs.

4. Who performed well for Bangladesh?

Taijul Islam and Mushfiqur Rahim played key roles.

5. Is Pakistan still in the match?

Yes, Pakistan is still alive in the chase but needs a strong final-day performance.

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