Tigers achieve historic Banglawash over Pakistan

Bangladesh has carved out a remarkable achievement in cricket, clinching a 2-0 Test series victory against Pakistan on their own soil.

This impressive feat, featuring a commanding six-wicket win in the second Test following a ten-wicket triumph in the first, stands as a significant milestone. Notably, it marks only the second time Bangladesh has secured a clean sweep in an away Test series, the first being back in 2009 against a weakened West Indies side.

In contrast, this series saw Pakistan suffer only their second-ever Test series whitewash at home, the first occurring against England in 2022. 

The second Test, held in Rawalpindi, was interrupted by rain on the first day, preventing any play. The inclement weather kept the players confined to their hotel, with the day being officially called off shortly after noon. This delay set the tone for a tense, weather-affected game, but when play resumed, Bangladesh was undeterred.

Bangladesh's openers, Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam, laid a solid foundation in their chase of 185 runs, putting together a 58-run partnership. Zakir was the standout, scoring a quickfire 40 runs, while Shadman contributed 24 before falling to Khurram Shehzad.

The early exchanges were marked by cautious yet confident batting, with both openers successfully navigating Pakistan's pace attack. Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh's captain, and Mominul Haque then took the reins, steadily advancing the score. Najmul added 38 runs, and Mominul 34, before Mominul's dismissal with the team at 153.

Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan then completed the chase with little fuss. Mushfiqur survived two consecutive reviews by Pakistan, with the DRS confirming his safety on both occasions. Shakib, who joined Mushfiqur after Mominul's departure, ensured there were no further hiccups, and Bangladesh crossed the finish line with 162 for 4, needing just 23 more runs at that stage.

The victory was sealed on the fifth day of the Test, a day that began with predictions of rain and thunderstorms. However, the skies eventually cleared, allowing play to proceed without interruption. By lunch, Bangladesh had reached 122 for 2, requiring just 63 more runs to secure the series. The final session of the day saw Bangladesh comfortably reach their target, despite a few moments of concern.

This series win is a milestone for Bangladesh, not only because of the victories themselves but also because of the manner in which they were achieved. The team's batting average in second innings since January 2023 has been the highest among all Test-playing nations, and this series showcased that strength. With this historic triumph, Bangladesh has firmly established itself as a formidable force in Test cricket, capable of winning in challenging conditions away from home.