Masood and Babar Anchor Pakistan’s Push for Record Test Victory in Sylhet

Masood and Babar steady Pakistan’s chase in 2nd cricket test against Bangladesh – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)

Sylhet, Bangladesh – Pakistan entered the fourth day of the second test needing a monumental effort to chase down 437 runs and level the series against Bangladesh. Early losses had left the visitors vulnerable at 41 for 2, yet captain Shan Masood and Babar Azam responded with a composed partnership that carried the score to 101 for 2 by lunch. Their stand of 60 runs has kept alive hopes of a result that would rank among the most ambitious in test history.

Early Strikes Put Bangladesh in Command

Pace bowler Nahid Rana struck first when he removed opener Abdullah Fazal for 6. The young batsman steered a short-pitched delivery straight to gully, handing Bangladesh an immediate breakthrough on a surface offering assistance to the quicks.

Offspinner Mehidy Hasan followed up soon afterward by trapping Azan Awais leg before wicket for 21. That second wicket left Pakistan’s top order exposed and gave the hosts clear momentum heading into the middle session.

Captain and Former Skipper Steady the Innings

Masood, unbeaten on 41, and Babar Azam, on 24 not out, began to rebuild with measured strokeplay. They negotiated the threat posed by Nahid Rana’s pace while still finding opportunities to rotate the strike and keep the scoreboard moving.

The pair’s resistance has shifted the tone of the contest. Where Bangladesh had seized control through the new ball, Pakistan’s experienced middle order now looks determined to extend the contest deep into the final day.

Context Behind the Daunting Target

Bangladesh posted 278 in their first innings, led by Litton Das’s 126, before dismissing Pakistan for 232. Mushfiqur Rahim’s 137 then powered the hosts to 390 in their second innings, setting the visitors a victory target that exceeds any successful chase previously recorded in test cricket.

No side has ever successfully chased more than 418 runs to win a test match. Bangladesh, already 1-0 up after a 104-run victory in the opening match, now stands one strong session away from completing a rare series sweep over Pakistan.

What Lies Ahead on Day Four and Beyond

The afternoon session will test whether Masood and Babar can continue their partnership or if Bangladesh’s bowlers can break through again. Any further wickets will dramatically increase the pressure on the lower order to support the chase.

With the series on the line and history beckoning, the outcome hinges on how long this third-wicket stand can last and whether Pakistan can maintain the required rate without further collapse.