Bangladesh complete historic Test series sweep over Pakistan in Sylhet

Bangladesh has secured a historic milestone in international cricket by defeating Pakistan by 78 runs in the second Test match in Sylhet. The victory completes a series sweep for the home side, marking their first Test series win against Pakistan on home soil. The result follows their previous 2-0 series triumph in Pakistan in 2024, establishing a dominant record for the national team in bilateral contests with their neighbours.

The match concluded on the fifth day, with Pakistan bowled out for 328 while chasing a target of 437. The visitors had begun the day on 316-7, appearing poised to defend a narrow lead. However, Bangladesh’s spin attack dismantled the lower order in the first session, ending Pakistan’s resistance after a resilient innings from Mohammad Rizwan.

Rizwan scored 94 runs off 166 balls, anchoring the chase after Pakistan had slumped to 162-5 on the previous day. He formed a crucial eighth-wicket partnership of 54 runs with Sajid Khan, who contributed 28 runs. The partnership was broken when spinner Taijul Islam dismissed Khan, securing his 18th Test five-wicket haul. Shoriful Islam then had Rizwan caught in the next over, and Taijul took the final wicket of Khurram Shahzad to finish with figures of six wickets for 120 runs.

In Bangladesh’s innings, the team built a substantial lead through strong batting performances. In their first innings, they scored 278, with wicketkeeper Litton Das top-scoring with 126. Pakistan were bowled out for 232 in response, with Taijul Islam taking 3-67. In the second innings, Bangladesh reached 390, guided by Mushfiqur Rahim’s 137. Litton Das contributed another 69, supported by Mahmudul Hasan Joy’s 52.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto led the side to the series victory, having won the opening Test by 104 runs. The comprehensive win in Sylhet underscores the team’s growing competitiveness in Test cricket, solidifying their status as a formidable force in the sport.