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On Day 1 of the first unofficial Test between Pakistan Shaheens and Bangladesh A in Islamabad, Naseem Shah showcased his fast-bowling prowess, leading Pakistan to a commanding position. Having recovered from an injury that sidelined him for a significant period, Naseem’s return to red-ball cricket was marked by a stellar performance. He claimed 3 wickets for just 24 runs, dismantling Bangladesh A’s batting order with his pace and precision.
Naseem Shah’s fierce return
Naseem’s first breakthrough was the dismissal of Bangladesh A’s captain, Anamul Haque, who fell for just seven runs. An inswinger from Naseem found its way to the gloves of wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed. He followed this with another crucial wicket, former captain Mominul Haque, who was dismissed for 11 runs. Naseem’s final victim, Rejaur Rahman Raja, was caught as he attempted to guide a ball onto the leg side but ended up gifting a catch to Mir Hamza.
Here’s the video:
Naseem Shah 3 wickets highlights with commentary.#PAKvBAN | #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/sjnTl1BlWR
— 𝙎𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙞 (@CallMeSheri1) August 13, 2024
Mir Hamza’s supportive role
Hamza complemented Naseem’s performance with his own impressive spell, taking 3 wickets for 33 runs. His left-arm pace proved effective in troubling the Bangladesh A batters, particularly in the middle order. Hamza’s contribution was crucial in ensuring that Bangladesh A could not stabilize their innings after the initial breakthroughs. Alongside Naseem, Hamza played a key role in dismissing Zakir Hasan, Shahadat Hossain and Nayeem Hasan, contributing significantly to the collapse of the visiting side.
Also READ: Pakistan pacer Naseem Shah expresses difficulties in communicating with foreign coaches
Mahmudul Hasan Joy’s resilient knock against Pakistan Shaheens
Despite the overall collapse of the Bangladesh A innings, Mahmudul Hasan Joy stood out with a resolute 65 runs off 116 balls. His innings was the only substantial resistance against a rampant Pakistan A attack. Joy’s effort was highlighted by his patient and technically sound approach, which provided a semblance of stability in an otherwise dismal innings for his team. Unfortunately, his resistance was cut short when Umar Amin claimed his wicket, leaving Bangladesh A in a precarious position with few runs to defend.
Bangladesh A’s collapse
The Bangladesh A batting lineup struggled from the start, finding themselves at 53/3 before a brief partnership offered some hope. However, the innings disintegrated as the team lost their last six wickets for a mere 31 runs. This collapse was marked by a lack of substantial contributions from the rest of the batting order, with only a few tailenders managing to show some fight. Mohammad Rameez and Amin also contributed with the ball, taking two and one wickets respectively, ensuring a swift end to Bangladesh A’s innings.
In their brief innings, Pakistan A faced just two overs before bad light brought an early end to the day’s play. Openers Saim Ayub and Muhammad Huraira safely navigated these overs, ending the day at 2 for no loss. With 120 runs still needed to equal Bangladesh A’s score, the second day’s play is anticipated to be crucial as Pakistan A looks to build on their strong start.
Upcoming fixtures
This match is the first of two four-day games between Pakistan A and Bangladesh A, followed by three one-day fixtures. These games are part of a larger tour that will see the senior teams of Pakistan and Bangladesh clash in a two-Test series starting on August 21 in Rawalpindi. The performances in these games will be closely watched, providing insights into the form and readiness of players ahead of the senior Test series.
