Bangladesh Fightback: Litton and Mehidy Shine against Pakistan

Century-maker Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz spearheaded a remarkable Bangladesh comeback in the second Test match against Pakistan. Despite an initial collapse incited by Pakistan's Khurram Shahzad, Litton's 138 and Mehidy's 78 framed a resilient 165-run partnership, propelling Bangladesh to 262. Pakistan's Abdullah Shafique and Shahzad were quickly dismissed, leaving Pakistan precariously at 9-2 at stumps.

Century-maker Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz led a Bangladesh fightback in the second Test and overshadowed Pakistan fast bowler Khurram Shahzad's maiden five-wicket haul here on Sunday.

Litton laced his attacking 138 with 13 fours and two sixes while Mehidy made an equally impressive 78 that propelled Bangladesh to 262 after Shahzad's early burst had left the tourists reeling at 26 for six inside the first hour on Day 3.

Pakistan, which lost the first Test by 10 wickets last week, lost opener Abdullah Shafique and nightwatchman Shahzad to fast bowler Hasan Mahmood and limped to 9-2 at stumps for an overall lead of 21 runs.

Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz's century partnership revitalized Bangladesh's innings, overshadowing Pakistan's Khurram Shahzad's impressive six-wicket haul. Despite Shahzad's early strikes reducing Bangladesh to 26-6, Litton and Mehidy's resilient stand carried Bangladesh to a total of 262.

Pakistan, coming off a 10-wicket win in the first Test, struggled after losing two early wickets. Abdullah Shafique and nightwatchman Shahzad fell to Hasan Mahmood, leaving Pakistan at 9-2 at the end of the day.

The fielding situation for Pakistan also deteriorated as Litton and Mehidy capitalized on dropped catches, further building on their partnership. Litton was eventually dismissed after a five-and-a-half-hour stint, but not before leading a spirited fightback for Bangladesh. Pakistan faces uphill task in their second innings.

(With inputs from agencies.)