Sylhet: Pakistan batting coach Asad Shafiq was optimistic despite his team facing a tough challenge on the final day of the second Test against Bangladesh at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
Speaking during a press conference later in the day, Asad was optimistic about Pakistan’s chances of avoiding a series whitewash and securing a record-breaking win.
“We can win this game. If we look at today’s batting performance, we are really confident. We need 120 more runs, Rizwan is batting and considering the way Sajith played in the first innings, we are confident,” he said.
The former Test batsman praised Pakistan’s fight with the bat, highlighting the importance of partnerships that have been lacking throughout the series.
“It’s a fantastic comeback as a batting unit because we haven’t had partnerships like this in this series. It’s something we’ve been missing as a batting group, so it’s encouraging to see them finally come together. Our previous three innings in this series were not good enough, but the way some players stood up today gives me a lot of confidence,” he added.
Commenting on captain Shaun Masood’s form, Asad praised his hard work and determination, while appreciating his valuable contribution under pressure.
“He tries really hard in the nets and it takes a while for him to keep bowling. He batted well, absorbed the pressure and when he got the loose balls, he took advantage of them,” remarked Azad.
The batting coach described the Sylhet surface as an ideal Test wicket, praising the balance it provided between bat and ball.
“I think it’s your best Test track. It has something for everyone – some seam movement for fast bowlers, especially with the new ball. As a batsman, you get value for your shots. I believe it’s a great Test wicket,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, left-arm spinner Taijul Islam sparked a dramatic Pakistan collapse with a four-wicket haul as the visitors lost seven wickets needing 121 runs to win.
Mohammad Rizwan scored his 14th Test half-century in consecutive innings, while Salman Ali Agha registered his 12th first-class half-century in red-ball cricket as Pakistan passed 250.
However, the crucial 134-run partnership came to an end when Taijul dismissed Salman for 71 off 102 balls with six fours and a six.
With the visitors reduced to 304-7 in 83.2 overs, Pakistan’s problems deepened when Hasan Ali ducked out, handing Taijul his fourth wicket.
At the end of play, Pakistan were 316-7 in 86 overs, with Rizwan unbeaten on 75 and Sajid Khan on 8, needing 121 runs to complete a remarkable victory.