PAK vs BAN: Saud Shakeel, Saim Ayub rescue Pakistan on opening day

RAWALPINDI: As the light began to fade, stumps were called on Day 1 of the first Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Despite a challenging start, Pakistan managed to recover well and finished the day at 158/4.

The day began with a significant delay due to a wet outfield, which kept players off the field for a full session. Thanks to the dedicated work of the ground staff, the pitch was eventually deemed playable, and the fans were treated to an intriguing contest between bat and ball.

Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bowl, taking full advantage of the new ball and the favorable conditions. Their bowlers were relentless, and Pakistan found themselves in a tough spot at 16/3 within the first ten overs. Hasan Mahmud and Shoriful Islam led the charge for Bangladesh, claiming early wickets with their incisive bowling.

However, Pakistan’s fourth-wicket pair managed to steady the ship. Saim Ayub and Saud Shakeel put on an impressive 98-run partnership to pull Pakistan back from their early slump. Ayub, playing only his second Test, weathered the initial storm and went on to score his maiden half-century. Shakeel, who was promoted to vice-captain, continued his impressive form by becoming the joint-fastest batter for Pakistan to reach 1000 Test runs, matching Saeed Ahmed’s record from 1959.

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Both Ayub and Shakeel showed a proactive approach to handling Bangladesh’s seamers. They frequently shuffled out of their crease, effectively disrupting the bowlers’ lengths and minimizing the impact of the movement off the pitch. When bad light brought play to a close, Pakistan were in a much stronger position at 158/4.