Mohammad Rizwan scripts WTC record with 171* vs Bangladesh
Pakistan's Mohammad Rizwan has etched his name in the World Test Championship (WTC) record books, following an impressive performance against Bangladesh in the first Test in Rawalpindi. The wicketkeeper-batter showcased exceptional form, scoring an unbeaten 171 runs off just 239 balls. This significant contribution propelled Pakistan to a first-innings total of 448 runs. Here are further details.
Rizwan surpasses Buttler, Pant in WTC record
Rizwan's unbeaten knock has set a new benchmark in the WTC history. As per ESPNcricinfo, he now holds the record for the highest individual score by a wicketkeeper-batter, surpassing England's Jos Buttler and India's Rishabh Pant. Buttler had previously scored 152 runs against Pakistan in 2020, while Pant had notched up 146 runs against England in 2022.
Rizwan also scripts this record
In addition to his WTC achievement, Rizwan's unbeaten 171-run knock also scripted a few other records. He became the Pakistan keeper with the highest individual score against Bangladesh in whites. The dasher missed out on becoming the third Pakistan keeper with a Test double-ton. Meanwhile, this knock has further cemented Rizwan's position as one of the most formidable players in the current Pakistani lineup.
Rizwan and Shakeel's partnership revives Pakistan's chances
On Day 1, Rizwan had joined Saud 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. Pakistan declared their innings at 448/6 as Rizwan's double-ton was denied.
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 239 runs.
