Mirpur: Bangladesh Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Tamim Iqbal hosted a special ceremony for Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Pakistan National Cricket Team Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in Dhaka on Saturday.
Chairman Iqbal also hosted a dinner to recognize the Pakistan team, which was attended by the players, coaching staff and team management.
During the event, the former Bangladesh captain and Mr Naqvi discussed strengthening mutual cooperation and promoting cricket development between the two countries.
Welcoming the Pakistani delegation, Tamim Iqbal said: “We warmly welcome you to Dhaka.”
Mohsin Naqvi replied: “Cricket has not only united our teams but also brought our hearts closer. Bilateral series have further strengthened the relationship between the two countries.”
He thanked the BCB President for the warm hospitality extended to the visitors.
On the field, Pakistan put up a solid fightback on the second day of the opening Test at Mirpur, led by a composed debut by Azan Awais who scored a memorable half-century.
In the end, Pakistan reached 179-1 in 46 overs, still 234 runs behind Bangladesh. Awais remained unbeaten on 85 while Abdullah Fazal remained unbeaten on 37 as the visitors cemented their position.
Earlier, openers Imam-ul-Haq and Awais provided a steady foundation as Pakistan were 50 for no loss at tea in 10 overs, with Imam 28 and Awais 18, trailing by 363 runs at that stage.
The pair accelerated in the final session, bringing up a century opening stand, with Awais completing his maiden Test half-century in the process. However, Mehdi Hasan Miraz dismissed Imam-ul-Haq for 45 off 72 balls to keep Pakistan at 106-1.
Abdullah played a supporting role alongside Fazal Awais as Pakistan crossed the 150 mark.
Earlier, Mohammad Abbas led the bowling with a five-wicket haul as Bangladesh were bowled out for 413 in 118 overs. Captain Najmul Hossain Shando top scored with 101 off 130 balls and Mominul Haq 91 off 200 balls.
After lunch on the second day, Shaheen Afridi dismissed Mushfiqur Rahim for 71 runs to complete a resilient innings and help Pakistan end the Bangladesh innings.