In the opening Test against Bangladesh at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan’s wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan delivered a stellar performance, scoring an unbeaten 171 runs. His remarkable innings drew widespread admiration, including high praise from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi. Naqvi took to X (formerly Twitter) to commend Rizwan, referring to him as “an unstoppable force” and an invaluable asset to Pakistan’s Test cricket.
Rizwan’s innings was a masterclass in resilience and skill. He reached his 150-run milestone with the help of nine fours and three sixes, eventually concluding his knock at 171 runs off 239 balls, which included 11 boundaries and three maximums. His contribution was pivotal as Pakistan declared their innings at a formidable 448/6 during the last session of day two.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed his admiration for Rizwan’s performance on social media, highlighting the batter’s importance to the team and his role in elevating Pakistan’s standing in Test cricket. “What a treat to watch! Hoping to see his performance elevate in the coming matches as well, he has surely made Pakistani Cricket Fans proud,” Naqvi wrote, capturing the sentiment of cricket fans across the nation.
Rizwan’s innings was supported by a crucial knock from vice-captain Saud Shakeel, who scored a composed 141 off 261 balls, including nine fours. Their partnership was instrumental in stabilizing Pakistan’s innings after a shaky start. Shaheen Afridi also contributed with a brisk 29 off 24 balls, adding valuable runs towards the end of the innings.
The match had an intense start, with Pakistan struggling early on day one after being asked to bat first. Bangladesh’s pace attack, led by Shoriful Islam and Hasan Mahmud, put Pakistan on the back foot by dismissing Abdullah Shafique (2), captain Shan Masood (6), and star batter Babar Azam (0) within the first 10 overs. At 38/3, Pakistan was in a precarious position, needing a strong partnership to stabilize their innings.
Rizwan, alongside Saud Shakeel, rose to the occasion, forging a 98-run partnership that brought Pakistan back into the contest. Saim Ayub also played a crucial role, scoring his maiden Test fifty in just his third innings. His knock of 56 off 98 balls, featuring four fours and a six, provided the initial stability that the team desperately needed.
Bangladesh’s bowlers, though initially dominant, faced difficulty breaking through Rizwan and Shakeel’s partnership. Shoriful Islam and Hasan Mahmud were the pick of the bowlers for Bangladesh, each claiming two wickets. Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz chipped in with one wicket apiece but couldn’t prevent Pakistan from posting a formidable total.
Rizwan’s innings, marked by its patience and power, has set the stage for Pakistan to potentially secure a strong position in the series. His performance, coupled with the resilience shown by Saud Shakeel and Saim Ayub, reflects the depth and determination of the Pakistani batting lineup. As the Test match progresses, fans and experts alike will be keen to see how Rizwan and the team build on this foundation in their quest for victory.
