Abbas Five-For Gives Pakistan Control in Bangladesh Test Thriller
Mohammad Abbas delivered a brilliant spell to put Pakistan in command of the first Test against Bangladesh. The experienced pacer claimed an impressive Abbas five-for as Bangladesh were bowled out for 413 in Dhaka. In response, Pakistan ended day two on 179-1. Debutants Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal impressed with calm and confident batting performances.
Abbas Leads Pakistan Fightback
Bangladesh started the day strongly after resuming on 301-4. However, Abbas quickly changed the momentum with disciplined bowling and clever movement. The 36-year-old removed key batters during the morning session. Later, he completed his sixth career five-wicket haul with figures of 5-92 in 34 overs. Mushfiqur Rahim fought hard for Bangladesh with 71 runs from 179 balls. In addition, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto had already laid the foundation with a fine century on day one. Litton Das scored 33 before falling to Abbas. Meanwhile, Mehidy Hasan Miraz managed only 10 after hitting a six moments earlier. Shaheen Shah Afridi also supported well and finished with 3-113. Bangladesh assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin admitted the team missed an opportunity. He also highlighted poor slip catching after two dropped chances.
Debutants Shine for Pakistan
Pakistan responded positively with the bat. Imam-ul-Haq and Azan Awais built a solid 106-run opening partnership. Imam scored 45 before Mehidy trapped him lbw. However, Azan remained unbeaten on 85 and showed excellent composure under pressure. Abdullah Fazal also impressed on debut and stayed not out on 37 at stumps. As a result, Pakistan reduced the deficit to 234 runs heading into day three. Imam later praised Abbas and the young batters for their performances. He said Azan handled pressure maturely and played with confidence throughout the innings.
