Taijul Islam toiled hard through Day 3, taking 7-116 to help Bangladesh secure a crucial 44-run first-innings lead. However, Shaheen Shah Afridi then struck thrice in the last session to leave Bangladesh precariously placed at 39/4. They now lead by 83, which gives Pakistan an edge, but not much.
Bangladesh had been 49/4 in the first innings as well, before Liton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim had lifted them. Rahim is currently batting on 12 and with Yasir Ali on eight.
Afridi struck twice in the fifth over, pinning Shadman Islam leg-before and having Najmul Hossain Shanto caught by Abdullah Shafique. Saif Hassan then chipped one back to Afridi.
Resuming on 145/0, Pakistan lost Shafique (52) early to Taijul, who also got Azhar Ali next ball. While Abid Ali held the fort, there was little contribution from the other end. Abid eventually fell to Taijul for 133, and Pakistan were soon bowled out for 286.
On Day 4, Shaheen and Hasan Ali will be primary threats for Bangladesh. Apart from Das, there is not much batting left after the current pair. Bangladesh is ahead by 83, and anything below 250 would be an easy target for the tourists.
Betway Fantasy Tips
- Rahim played well in the last innings, and has looked good so far in the second. Pick him in your side.
- Afridi has already picked three wickets. Expect him to pick more on Day 4.
- Place your bet on Pakistan.