R Ashwin expresses surprise over Pakistan's 'tired collapse' against Bangladesh
Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed his surprise at Pakistan's unexpected defeat in the first Test match against Bangladesh, held in Rawalpindi. This loss marked the first time that Pakistan lost to Bangladesh in this format. It was also a historic victory for Bangladesh, as they had never before won a Test match by 10 wickets, either at home or away. Here are further details.
Ashwin puzzled by Pakistan's strategy and performance
Ashwin shared his thoughts on the match via his YouTube channel, stating that he was taken aback by Pakistan's sudden collapse on a pitch he described as a "road." He noted that the game had been in "sleep mode" for three days before Pakistan's unexpected downfall. Ashwin also highlighted that teams usually don't collapse on pitches like the one in Rawalpindi. "The proper, tired collapse on a final day. I haven't seen that for a long time."
Pakistan's shocking collapse
Notably, bowlers struggled to get going in the first two innings as Bangladesh posted 565 after Pakistan declared their first innings at 448/6. However, things were different in the third innings as spinners Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz made the red-ball talk. They shared seven wickets as the home team got bundled out for just 146. The Tigers later accomplished the 30-run target.
Ashwin questions Pakistan's decision to play four seamers
Ashwin further questioned Pakistan's decision to field four seamers and no spinners on a dry pitch. This strategy has also been criticized by others in the cricketing world, including former cricketers like Rashid Latif. Latif raised concerns about the medical and physio teams, due to the fast bowlers' lack of pace during the match.
Ashwin's confusion over Pakistan's performance
Ashwin admitted that he was confused by the events of the match, particularly toward its conclusion. He mentioned how Mohammad Rizwan was putting up a fight at the end, but Naseem Shah played a shot and left cheaply. "I didn't understand what just happened. I didn't understand a thing," he said on his YouTube channel.
