NEW DELHI: Bangladesh achieved a landmark victory over Pakistan in the first Test, securing a 10-wicket win on the final day despite political unrest at home. Pakistan’s batting faltered, managing only 146 runs before being dismissed, as Bangladesh’s pace and spin attack tore through their lineup.
Off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz and veteran left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan combined for seven wickets, with Mehidy claiming 4-21 and Shakib taking 3-44. The win marked Bangladesh’s first-ever Test victory against Pakistan in 14 encounters and only their seventh overseas Test win, following their 2022 victory over New Zealand.
Bangladesh’s opening batsmen Zakir Hasan (15*) and Shadman Islam (9*) comfortably chased down the 30-run target, clinching the historic victory without losing a wicket.
Despite declaring at 448-6, Pakistan trailed by 117 runs in the first innings. Mohammad Rizwan was the standout for Pakistan, top-scoring with 51 after his unbeaten 171 in the first innings. However, Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling, led by Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, and Nahid Rana, proved too much for Pakistan’s middle order, as reckless shot-making and aggressive field placements led to their downfall.
The win extended Pakistan’s winless streak in home Test cricket to nine matches, with five losses and four draws since their last victory against South Africa in 2021. The second Test will take place in Rawalpindi next Friday, after being relocated from Karachi due to stadium renovations.
