• Pakistan's middle-order provided a much-needed rescue act against Bangladesh on Day 2 of the Rawalpindi Test.

  • Saud Shakeel and Mohammed Rizwan smashed the fighting ton for Pakistan.

Netizens react as Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan dazzle Rawalpindi stadium with superb centuries on Day 2 of PAK vs BAN 1st Test
Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan (Image Source: X)

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On Day 2 of the first Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, the Pakistan middle order provided a much-needed rescue act.

Saud Shakeel’s patient hundred

Saud Shakeel played a crucial innings on Day 2 of the first Test against Bangladesh at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Making his debut as the vice-captain, Shakeel scored a patient hundred off 195 balls, rescuing Pakistan from an early collapse. Shakeel’s innings was marked by composure and skill, helping Pakistan recover from a precarious position at 57 runs on Day 1. This century is Shakeel’s third in Test cricket, highlighting his emerging talent and consistency. With a career tally of around 1100 runs at an impressive average of 67.50, Shakeel has established himself as a key player for Pakistan in the longest format.

Mohammad Rizwan’s aggressive century

Alongside Shakeel, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan played a pivotal role. Rizwan ended a two-year wait for a Test century, scoring 100 off 143 balls. His aggressive approach included eight boundaries and four sixes, showcasing his ability to dominate the bowlers. Rizwan’s innings helped Pakistan build a solid platform after the early collapse. With this century, Rizwan became the second-most successful wicketkeeper-batter for Pakistan in terms of centuries scored at home. His last hundred came in March 2022 against Australia in Karachi.

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Impactful partnership for Pakistan

The partnership between Shakeel and Rizwan was instrumental in Pakistan’s recovery. Adding now over 200 runs for the fifth wicket, the duo helped Pakistan recover from a precarious position. Their stand was vital in shifting the momentum in Pakistan’s favor after a challenging start to the Test. Pakistan capitalize on the solid innings by Shakeel and Rizwan. Despite the early collapse on Day 1, Pakistan’s recovery was led by these two centuries, allowing them to establish a commanding position. Young Saim Ayub also contributed with a valuable 56, adding to the strength of Pakistan’s batting.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: PAK vs BAN: Fans mercilessly troll Babar Azam for his flop show with the bat on Day 1 of first Test

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