Litton Das Century Rescues Bangladesh in 2nd Test Against Pakistan
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A Resilient Performance at the Crease
The opening day of the second and final Test between Bangladesh and Pakistan proved to be a rollercoaster of emotions. With Bangladesh finding themselves in early trouble against a disciplined and aggressive Pakistan pace attack, it was wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das who stood tall. Das produced a sublime knock of 126 runs off 159 balls, effectively rescuing his side from a precarious position and providing a respectable total on the scoreboard.
Bangladesh’s Early Struggles
The day began with Pakistan winning the toss and electing to bowl first, a decision that appeared to pay immediate dividends. Muhammad Abbas struck early, dismissing Mahmudul Hasan for a duck on just the second ball of the innings. Debutant Tanzid Hasan offered a glimpse of promise with 26 runs, including some elegant cover drives, but his stay was cut short when he top-edged a delivery to hand Abbas a return catch.
The pressure mounted as the middle order struggled to settle. Mominul, coming off a strong performance in the first Test, was bowled by the impressive Khurram Shahzad for 22, leaving the tourists reeling at 63-3. Even captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who had been in stellar form, could only manage 29 before being dismissed by Abbas.
The Litton Das Masterclass
With Bangladesh slipping to 116-6 after the dismissals of Mushfiqur Rahim and Mehidy Hasan, the situation looked dire. However, Litton Das shifted the momentum. Partnering with Taijul Islam, Das orchestrated a vital 60-run stand for the seventh wicket. He reached his half-century off 93 balls, but it was his acceleration thereafter that truly defined the innings.
Das showcased an exquisite range of shots, including 16 boundaries and two towering sixes. He reached his sixth Test century in just 135 balls, punctuated by a signature backfoot punch through the covers. Reflecting on his approach, Das noted that his initial focus was purely on survival rather than personal milestones. Once he surpassed his fifty, he received the green light to play more aggressively, a tactic that paid off handsomely.
Pakistan’s Bowling Effort
Pakistan’s pace battery was unrelenting throughout the day. Khurram Shahzad, stepping into the side, was particularly effective, finishing with figures of 4-81. Muhammad Abbas provided excellent support, claiming 3-45. Hasan Ali also played a crucial role, overcoming an early injury scare to return to the field and eventually claiming the prized wicket of Das. Despite the bowlers’ dominance, Pakistan’s fielding left something to be desired, with Das receiving a lifeline when he was dropped by Sajid Khan on 33.
Looking Ahead
By the time Bangladesh was bowled out for 278, the team had managed to recover significantly from a disastrous start. In response, Pakistan safely navigated six overs before stumps, finishing at 21-0 and trailing by 257 runs. The opening pair of Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal will look to build a solid foundation on the second day.
The inclusion of Babar Azam back into the Pakistan squad adds significant weight to their batting lineup for the remainder of the Test. With the match delicately poised, the coming days are set to offer a fascinating contest between Pakistan’s batting depth and a spirited, albeit vulnerable, Bangladeshi bowling attack.
Ultimately, while Bangladesh will be pleased with their recovery, the reliance on Das highlights an ongoing need for consistency across the batting order. If they are to force a result in this final Test, their bowlers will need to replicate the discipline shown by the Pakistan pace attack during the opening session.
