Bangladesh vs Afghanistan, Only Test, Day 2: Talking Points

Afghanistan had a disappointing day against Bangladesh, falling behind in all aspects of the game. Going into the moving day of the one-off Test match, the Afghan team hoped for a turnaround. However, Bangladesh held a strong position after Day 2, boasting a significant lead of 370 runs with 9 wickets remaining. After struggling on the opening day, Afghanistan’s pacers made up for their earlier errors and quickly dismissed the hosts in the first hour of Day 2.

Nijat Masood, the right-arm pacer, played a crucial role in Afghanistan’s bowling attack, claiming an impressive five-wicket haul (5/79) on his Test debut. He became the second Afghan bowler to achieve this feat. However, Bangladesh’s Najmul Hossain Shanto’s outstanding knock of 146 (from 175 balls) propelled their team to a total of 382 in the first innings.

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Under overcast conditions, the Afghan batsmen struggled and were continuously troubled by the extra bounce and movement off the pitch. Bangladesh took just 39 overs to bowl out Afghanistan for a mere 146 runs. Although there was a small partnership of 65 runs for the fifth wicket between Nasir Jamal and Afsar Zazai, it couldn’t save them from a humiliating collapse. Opting not to enforce the follow-on, Litton Das, the Bangladesh captain, showed positive intent with their top-order in the second innings. After the dismissal of Mahmudul Hasan Joy, both Najmul Hossain Shanto and Zakir Hasan reached their respective half-centuries, finishing the day on a high note.

Day 3 of the Test match holds crucial importance for both teams. Najmul Hossain Shanto (54* off 64 balls) and Zakir Hasan (54* off 64 balls) will resume the innings for Bangladesh, aiming to extend their lead. Meanwhile, the Afghan bowlers face a daunting task as they seek to mount a comeback. Their efforts will be crucial in turning the tide of the match.