Rizwan rescues Pakistan in crucial Sylhet Test battle

Rizwan keeps Pakistan alive in Sylhet Test. File photo

| Published May, 19 2026 | Updated 18 hours ago

Sylhet (Web Desk): Rizwan keeps Pakistan alive in Sylhet Test as his unbeaten knock and Salman Ali Agha’s fighting innings revive hopes in a tough 437-run chase against Bangladesh.

Pakistan stayed in the contest on the fourth day of the second Test against Bangladesh after Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha produced a strong fightback in Sylhet.

Chasing a massive 437-run target, Pakistan ended the day at 316-7, still needing more runs for victory but keeping their hopes alive ahead of the final day. Mohammad Rizwan remained unbeaten on 75 off 134 balls, hitting eight boundaries during a calm and determined innings under pressure.

Sajid Khan was at the crease with him on nine runs after surviving the final overs of the day.

Pakistan looked in serious trouble earlier, but Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha rebuilt the innings with a valuable 134-run partnership that brought the visitors back into the match. Salman Ali Agha played an aggressive knock of 71 off 102 balls, smashing six fours and one six before being dismissed by spinner Taijul Islam.

The breakthrough came at an important moment for Bangladesh, as the partnership had reduced the target to below 200 runs. Taijul Islam struck again shortly afterward by removing Hasan Ali for zero, helping Bangladesh regain control before stumps.

Earlier, Pakistan faced pressure despite captain Shan Masood’s fighting half-century. Shan Masood scored a gritty 71 off 116 balls, while Babar Azam contributed 47 runs in a steady partnership that helped Pakistan recover after early setbacks.

Also Read: Bangladesh set massive 437-run target for Pakistan in Sylhet Test

Pakistan had lost both openers cheaply after resuming their innings at 0-0 in pursuit of the huge target. Nahid Rana dismissed Abdullah Fazal early, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz removed debutant Azan Awais for 21, leaving Pakistan struggling at 41-2.

Shan Masood and Babar Azam then steadied the innings with a composed stand before Bangladesh struck again after lunch. Saud Shakeel failed to make an impact and was dismissed for six, increasing pressure on the visitors during the middle session.

Earlier in the match, Bangladesh posted 390 runs in their second innings, mainly due to Mushfiqur Rahim’s brilliant century, which gave the hosts a commanding advantage. Bangladesh bowlers, especially Taijul Islam, continued to trouble Pakistan with disciplined bowling as the match moved toward a tense final day.