Sports Desk
DHAKA: Bangladesh beat Pakistan by 104 runs in the first match of the two-Test series at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka, on Tuesday.
Resuming the final session at 116-3, Pakistan were bowled out for 163 in 52.5 overs while chasing Bangladesh’s 268-run target courtesy of an exceptional five-wicket haul by Nahid Rana.
The visitors suffered an early setback when Taskin Ahmed struck in the opening over, removing Imam-ul-Haq for just two runs off five deliveries.
Despite the early blow, Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal steadied the innings with a crucial 50-run partnership for the second wicket, easing pressure and rebuilding momentum.
However, the stand ended at 54 when Azan was dismissed for 15 off 33 balls after striking one boundary off Mehidy Hasan Miraz, leaving Pakistan struggling at 57-2 in 12.1 overs.
The situation worsened soon after when Nahid Rana removed skipper Shan Masood cheaply for two runs off five balls.
Taijul Islam struck early and got rid of Abdullah Fazal who was dismissed LBW after playing an outstanding knock of 66 off 113 deliveries comprising 11 fours and ending the 51-run stand alongside Salman Ali Agha.
In the very next over, Taskin Ahmed struck and picked up his crucial second wicket by dismissing Salman Agha for 26 off 39 deliveries including one four, leaving the team struggling at 121-5 in 32.4 overs.
