Bangladesh made history with a monumental victory over Pakistan in the first Test of the three-match series at Rawalpindi. This win marked Bangladesh’s first-ever triumph over Pakistan in Test cricket, and they achieved it in style, winning by 10 wickets. Chasing a modest target of just 30 runs in the second innings, the visitors sealed the win with all their wickets intact.
The victory came as a beacon of hope for a nation grappling with political unrest and natural disasters, and it also boosted Bangladesh’s standing in the World Test Championship 2023-25 Points Table.
While Bangladesh celebrated this historic win, the loss was a bitter pill for Pakistan to swallow. The defeat was particularly disheartening as it followed their decision to declare in the first innings. Typically, a declaration signals confidence in a team’s ability to dominate and secure a victory. However, for Shan Masood and his men, this strategy backfired spectacularly.
ALSO READ: Rift in Pakistan Dressing Room: Tensions Rise Within Test Team Amid Disappointing Performances
Former Pakistan cricketer and captain Shahid Afridi didn’t hold back in expressing his disappointment. Afridi criticized the team’s decision-making, particularly the choice to play without a specialist spinner, despite being on home soil. He also pointed out the lack of awareness about the pitch conditions.
A 10-wicket defeat raises serious questions about the decision to prepare this type of pitch, select four fast bowlers and leave out a specialist spinner. This to me clearly shows a lack of awareness about home conditions. That said, you cannot take the credit away from…
— Shahid Afridi (@SAfridiOfficial) August 25, 2024
Taking to social media, Shahid Afridi voiced his concerns, stating, “A 10-wicket defeat raises serious questions about the decision to prepare this type of pitch, select four fast bowlers, and leave out a specialist spinner. This to me clearly shows a lack of awareness about home conditions. That said, you cannot take the credit away from Bangladesh for the brand of cricket they played throughout the Test.”
ALSO READ: Mushfiqur Rahim Dedicates Player Of The Match Award to Bangladesh Flood Victims
The match’s standout performance came from Bangladesh’s veteran wicketkeeper-batter, Mushfiqur Rahim. His impressive knock of 191 runs in the first innings was pivotal in giving Bangladesh a substantial lead against Pakistan’s 448/6d. Although Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan also shone with a solid 171 runs and a half-century in the second innings, the rest of the team faltered, displaying little intent or resilience. Ultimately, Bangladesh’s determination and strategic play led them to a well-deserved victory.
