PAK vs BAN: Mohammad Rizwan denied double-ton after declaration
The first Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh, currently underway in Rawalpindi, has been marked by controversy. This arose when Pakistan declared their innings at 448/6, leaving Mohammad Rizwan just 29 runs short of his maiden Test double-century. The decision was made by captain Shan Masood and has sparked debate among cricket fans worldwide. Here are further details.
Rizwan's performance and fans' reactions to declaration decision
Rizwan delivered an impressive performance, remaining unbeaten with 171 runs off 239 balls. He was well-supported by vice-captain Saud Shakeel, who contributed a significant 141 runs. The duo's partnership for the fifth wicket added a substantial 240 runs to Pakistan's total. However, Masood's decision to declare before Rizwan could reach his double century has led to disappointment among fans on social media platforms.
Shakeel defends team's decision in post-day press conference
In a post-day press conference, vice-captain Saud Shakeel defended the team's decision to declare. He stated that Rizwan was informed about the impending declaration an hour prior. "Rizwan bhai was clearly told an hour before that we would be declaring at this point in time," Shakeel said. He further emphasized that the move was strategic and aimed at ensuring enough runs on the board to pressure Bangladesh.
A solid knock from Rizwan's blade
On Day 1, Rizwan had joined Shakeel when Pakistan were 114/4. The two saw out the day and continued in a positive fashion on Thursday against a toothless Bangladesh attack. They rotated the strike well and capitalized on boundary opportunities. Shakeel perished for 141 before Rizwan added two more vital stands alongside Agha Salman and Shaheen Afridi. He returned unbeaten on 171.
3rd Test century for Rizwan
Rizwan reached his century with a four, having faced 143 deliveries. His 171*-run knock consisted of 11 fours and a six. He smashed his third Test century. Playing his 31st match, Rizwan owns 1,787 runs at 44.67. In addition to three tons, he has clobbered nine fifties. As per ESPNcricinfo, in four matches versus Bangladesh, Rizwan averages 119.50, having scored nearly 239 runs.
Masood's declaration exposed Bangladesh openers
Pakistan declared their first innings at 448 for 6 in 113 overs. The early declaration meant Pakistan bowlers had 12 overs to try and get an early wicket on Thursday evening. However, they failed to do so as openers Shadman Islam and Zakir Hasan negotiated the challenging phase well and returned unbeaten. Notably, rain has had an impact on this game.
