Bangladesh Stuns Pakistan With First-Ever Test Series Win in Rawalpindi

Bangladesh Stuns Pakistan With First-Ever Test Series Win in Rawalpindi Apr, 22 2025

Bangladesh Makes History With Back-to-Back Test Wins

Who would have thought Bangladesh, often painted as underdogs in away Tests, would deliver a punch like this in Pakistan’s own backyard? With a gritty six-wicket win in Rawalpindi, Bangladesh locked in their first-ever Test series victory in Pakistan—something fans have been dreaming about for years.

The chase looked tricky on paper. Pakistan set a target of 185 runs after putting together first-innings scores of 274 and 172. Bangladesh, however, seemed unfazed. Their approach was calculated, calm, and quietly confident, setting the tone from the very beginning.

Big Moments and Bigger Performances

The opening stand felt like a statement. Zakir Hasan (40) and Shadman Islam (24) strung together a solid 50-run partnership, snuffing out any immediate nerves. It didn't matter that they weren't smashing boundaries—what mattered was the steady hand and cool heads, refusing to give Pakistan any early breakthroughs.

Once the door cracked open, the middle order made sure not to let the pressure creep up. Najmul Hossain Shanto added a quick 38, while Mominul Haque chipped in with 34—small scores that felt a lot heavier considering the match situation. Then came the calm at the end: Mushfiqur Rahim, unbeaten on 22, guided Bangladesh through those nervy final overs. Shakib Al Hasan (21 not out), ever the reliable all-rounder, sealed the result with a six that sent ripples through the stadium and silenced the Pakistani fielders.

But it wasn't all smooth sailing. Pakistan let a glimmer of hope shine as Khurram Shahzad (3/85) and Hasan Mahmud (2/64) chipped away at the wickets. For a brief spell, it seemed Bangladesh could lose their footing. But a combination of experience and patience saw the visitors home. The scoreboard eventually read 185 for 4—mission complete.

Bowling-wise, Bangladesh had their own heroes. Mehidy Hasan picked up 10 wickets across the series, with Shakib providing crucial support (5 wickets). Their combined spin and skill cornered Pakistan in key moments, especially when the hosts desperately needed steady partnerships.

  • Key for Bangladesh: Attack with the new ball, trust the spinners in the middle overs.
  • Key for Pakistan: Shan Masood and Saim Ayub tried to rescue their first innings, but it just wasn’t enough.

Captains talk about taking the right call at the toss, but it’s rare to see those decisions shape an entire game so clearly. Bangladesh’s choice to field first, betting on early morning conditions, paid off. The bowlers found movement, nibbled away at the top order, and left Pakistan on the back foot from the start.

Standing in the outfield, Mushfiqur and Shakib probably knew exactly what this win meant. Not just a tick in the record books, but a statement that Bangladesh cricket can stare down the pressure and come out on top—especially when it matters most. Next time anyone doubts their Test credentials, they’ll just point to Rawalpindi.