Mehidy Hasan, Taskin Ahmed Rock Pakistan as Awais Hits Debut Century | Bangladesh vs Pakistan

Bangladesh roared back into contention on the third morning of the Test match as Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taskin Ahmed ripped through Pakistan’s middle order, halting what looked like a commanding batting performance by the visitors. Pakistan, resuming at 210 for 1, ended the session at 251 for 5 — still trailing Bangladesh’s first-innings total of 413 by 162 runs.

Awais Shines with Maiden Century

Debutant Azan Awais was the early protagonist, continuing his overnight vigil with composure and intent. Resuming on 85, he confidently greeted Nahid Rana with back-to-back boundaries in the off side, quickly bringing up his maiden Test century in the fifth over of the day. The milestone came via a single, and Awais celebrated with a mix of emotion and relief, punching the air and raising his bat to the dressing room.

Awais’ century made him the 14th Pakistan batter to score a hundred on Test debut and the third to achieve the feat against Bangladesh. His knock was also the second debut century at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, following Ireland’s Lorcan Tucker’s effort during the 2023 tour.

Sudden Collapse Under Host Pressure

After Awais’ dismissal for 103, the momentum shifted rapidly. What had been a steady progression to 210 for 1 quickly unraveled to 230 for 5, with Mehidy Hasan Miraz spearheading the charge. The all-rounder delivered a pivotal spell, claiming three crucial wickets for 61 runs, including those of Awais, Abdullah Shafique, and Saud Shakeel.

Taskin Ahmed provided vital support with two for 61, cutting off Pakistan’s recovery attempts by dismissing Babar Azam and Mohammad Haris in quick succession. The fast bowler’s precision and bounce created consistent pressure, forcing errors from the batting side.

Resilience from Rizwan and Agha

• Mohammad Rizwan remained unbeaten at the crease, anchoring the resistance with a gritty 25*
• Salman Ali Agha supported with a composed 18*
• The pair added 21 runs in an unbroken partnership to steady the ship before lunch
• Pakistan need another 252 runs to avoid following on

The hosts, having endured a tough second day where Pakistan’s openers dominated, responded with discipline and aggression. Mehidy, in particular, showcased his value with both ball and tactical acumen, reversing the game’s trajectory in Bangladesh’s favor.

What’s Next?

As temperatures rise over Mirpur, so does the intensity. With just five wickets down and over 160 runs still required to draw level, the afternoon session could define the match’s outcome. If Rizwan and Agha can extend their partnership, Pakistan may yet seize control. But with Shakib Al Hasan and Mustafizur Rahman waiting in the wings, Bangladesh will be eager to wrap up the innings swiftly and enforce a follow-on.

For now, Mehidy Hasan and Taskin Ahmed stand tall — their combined efforts erasing the gloss of Awais’ brilliant debut and reigniting home hopes in a contest that’s now finely balanced.