In a thrilling display of resilience and skill, Pakistan stunned cricket fans worldwide on Day 2 of the ongoing first Test match against Bangladesh on Thursday. The match witnessed an extraordinary performance from in-form Pakistani batsman Saud Shakeel, who registered a magnificent century, and wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan, who carved his name into the history books with an unbeaten 171 runs. Their combined efforts propelled Pakistan to a formidable total of 448 for 6 in their first innings.
Mohammad Rizwan, celebrated for his consistent form in recent times, marked a milestone with his innings. This knock represented his third century in Test cricket and his first in 890 days. Rizwan dazzled the crowd by notching up his career-best Test score of 171 not out off just 239 balls. This remarkable achievement also shattered the previous record for the highest score by a number six batsman in World Test Championship (WTC) history. In a crowning moment, Rizwan eclipsed the mark set by India’s Rishabh Pant, thereby stealing the spotlight with a record-breaking performance.
Rizwan’s feat also secured another significant milestone: the highest score ever recorded by a designated wicketkeeper in the history of the WTC. By surpassing Rishabh Pant’s renowned 141-run innings against England in 2022, Rizwan established himself as the first wicketkeeper to score more than 150 runs in WTC records.
Meanwhile, Saud Shakeel, continuing his rich vein of form, added another century to his burgeoning tally in Test cricket. The left-handed batsman showcased his class and tenacity by scoring his third Test century in just 20 innings. Shakeel’s contributions have been noteworthy, boasting exceptional numbers that place him second only to the legendary Australian cricketer Don Bradman in batting averages in Test cricket.
Since making his debut in 2022, 29-year-old Shakeel has accumulated 1,108 runs in just 20 innings, maintaining a stellar average of 65.17. This batting average is the highest among active cricketers, putting him ahead of contemporaries such as England’s Harry Brook, who averages 60.
.26, and Australia’s Steve Smith, who averages 56.97.
Adding to his list of accolades, Shakeel crossed the 1,000 Test runs landmark, becoming the joint-fastest Pakistani batsman to reach this milestone. He equaled the 65-year-old record set by former Pakistani batsman Saeed Ahmed, proving his mettle as one of the finest talents in modern Test cricket.
The partnership between Shakeel and Rizwan not only bolstered Pakistan’s position in the match but also highlighted the formidable depth in their batting lineup. The staggering total of 448 for 6 on the scoreboard at the end of Pakistan’s first innings speaks volumes of their batting prowess and resilience in the face of adversity.
Cricket enthusiasts worldwide watched in awe as Rizwan’s determined batting and Shakeel’s elegant strokeplay forged a partnership that will be remembered for years to come. This Test match has emerged as a testament to Pakistan’s test cricket capabilities and the individual brilliance of Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel.
In related news, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced their home season schedule, indicating a potential clash of dates between a Test match against Zimbabwe and the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2025. However, the Indian women’s cricket team is set to play an unprecedented Test match at Lord’s against England in 2026, marking a significant milestone in women’s cricket history.
For Pakistan, the first Test against Bangladesh has already provided moments of celebration and records to cherish. The team’s performance, powered by the unforgettable innings from Rizwan and Shakeel, has set a lofty precedent for the rest of the series. As the Test match progresses, all eyes will be on Pakistan to see if they can maintain their momentum and secure a commanding victory over Bangladesh.
Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan’s extraordinary performances have not only elevated their personal standings but have also fortified Pakistan’s stature in the World Test Championship. These stellar innings will resonate as defining moments in their careers, inspiring budding cricketers and fans around the globe.
As the series continues, cricket aficionados await with bated breath the unfolding drama and excitement, hopeful for more such scintillating displays of talent and tenacity on the cricket field.
