Bangladesh defeated Pakistan by 78 runs in the second Test on Wednesday thanks to six wickets from spinner Taijul Islam, securing a historic 2-0 series victory.
After a heroic 94 from Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan, who had begun the fifth day on 316-7 chasing a record 437, were bowled out for 328 in the opening session in Sylhet.
Following their 2-0 victory on Pakistani soil in 2024, it was Bangladesh’s first Test series victory at home over Pakistan and their second straight sweep. Bangladesh achieved a significant milestone with the victory, winning four straight Test series for the first time in their history.
“It’s difficult to explain the emotions of that final hour because Pakistan were batting really well and we were under pressure. But compared to previous matches, we controlled our emotions better and avoided panic. Every player and member of the support staff contributed, and as captain I feel very proud of the team’s work ethic,” AFP quoted Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto as saying.
After the visitors had fallen to 162-5 on day four, wicketkeeper Rizwan kept Pakistan in the running for an improbable victory with a 166-ball stay. Together with overnight partner Sajid Khan, who scored 28, Rizwan put on an eighth-wicket stand of 54.
Pakistan’s fight was ended when fast bowler Shoriful Islam caught Rizwan in the following over after Taijul broke through to eliminate Sajid for his 18th Test five-wicket haul.
“It’s never good to lose games. In both matches we had significant chances, but we need to reflect on where we lost the game in batting, bowling and fielding if we want to move forward as a side,” said Pakistan skipper Shan Masood.
After taking Khurram Shahzad’s last wicket, Taijul returned second-innings figures of 6-120, setting off the celebrations in Bangladesh.
Litton Das struck 126 in Bangladesh’s first-innings 278, earning him player of the match award.
With help from Litton (69) and Mahmudul Hasan Joy (52), veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim hit 137 in the second to lead Bangladesh to 390.
For his 253 runs in two games, Mushfiqur, 39, was named player of the series.
The first Test was won by Bangladesh by 104 runs.
