There was a lot riding on the outcome of the second and final test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh, which took place in Rawalpindi. Pakistan made a courageous choice by removing their premier fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, from the match. The decision was made after Pakistan suffered a shocking setback of ten wickets in the first test match, which was their very first loss against Bangladesh during their whole history. In order to avoid losing the series, Pakistan, which is now being commanded by Shan Masood, must now confront the task of winning the second test.

On the other side, Bangladesh is working toward achieving a history-making victory in the series. On the other hand, the unpredictability of the weather in Rawalpindi, which had an impact on the first test, might perhaps play a part once again. On Thursday, both teams were unable to practice because of the rain that came and went sporadically.

In the last test match, Pakistan’s red-ball coach, Jason Gillespie, underlined the need of the bowlers adopting a more aggressive and disciplined approach to the game. He unveiled a 12-person team, which did not include Shaheen Afridi but did include Abrar Ahmed, who was thought to be a mystery spinner. In light of the fact that Shaheen had a difficult time during the first test and had just recently become a father, he was granted time off to be with his family and relax. Gillespie noted that Shaheen has been putting in a lot of effort to enhance his bowling, despite the fact that his form has seen a recent decline.

In addition to this, Gillespie emphasized the need of adopting a more optimistic batting strategy and urged the players to increase their level of energy and take initiative. Shan Masood, the captain of the team, was lauded for his leadership, and he was singled out for his courageous choice to declare early in the first innings of the previous match, despite the fact that it did not result in a win!

On the other hand, Chandika Hathurusinghe, the head coach of Bangladesh, has voiced his confidence in his team’s potential to replicate the performance they shown in the first installment of the series. Despite the fact that he recognized the challenge of defeating Pakistan on their own field, he lauded the morale and effort of his players, especially the influence that bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed had.

Pakistan is looking to redeem themselves, while Bangladesh is trying to create history. The second test match provides a big challenge for both sides.