Mushfiq Nears Landmark Century

The Bangladesh national cricket team have taken firm control of the Sylhet Test against the Pakistan national cricket team, finishing a dominant third day in a commanding position with a sizeable lead and wickets in hand, while Mushfiqur Rahim stands on the brink of yet another Test century.

By the tea break on day three, Bangladesh had reached 307 for six in their second innings, stretching their overall lead to 353 runs. With Mushfiqur Rahim unbeaten and only 10 runs away from a well-deserved hundred, the hosts appear poised to set Pakistan a challenging fourth-innings target on a wearing surface.

The afternoon session saw two crucial breakthroughs that briefly slowed Bangladesh’s momentum. Liton Das, who had earlier been granted a reprieve on 55, failed to capitalise fully and was dismissed for 69. He edged a delivery from Hasan Ali in the 62nd over, with Saud Shakeel completing a comfortable catch.

Shortly afterwards, Mehidy Hasan Miraz joined the crease but his stay was brief. He was bowled by a sharp delivery from Khurram Shahzad in the 72nd over, departing for 19 off 39 balls.

From there, Mushfiqur Rahim combined with Taijul Islam to steady the innings. The pair added 35 runs off 49 deliveries for the seventh wicket, ensuring Bangladesh maintained their commanding position heading into the final stages of the day.

Mushfiqur also reached a significant personal milestone during his innings, surpassing 16,000 runs in international cricket across all formats. He reached the landmark with a couple of runs in the 73rd over, further cementing his status as Bangladesh’s most prolific run-scorer in international cricket. Earlier, he brought up his 30th Test half-century with a composed two off Sajid Khan.

With Bangladesh in control and Mushfiqur nearing three figures, the match appears to be tilting decisively in the hosts’ favour, while Pakistan face a stern challenge to claw their way back into contention.

Bangladesh Second Innings – Key Contributions

With one session remaining on day three, all eyes remain on Mushfiqur Rahim as he looks to convert his innings into another memorable Test century and push Bangladesh into an even stronger position.