compiled version ( as of aug 29 )
Expecting a lack of any meaningful challenge from a lowly Pakistani cricket team, Bangladeshi selectors sent a *weakened* team to Pakistan, resting such talented, world-class performers as Naimur Rahman and Mohammad Al Shahriar. In addition, after a lacklustre showing by Pakistan in the first test, Bangladesh coach Dave Whatmore decided to rest the much feared speedster Taposh Baisya and ace off spinner Sanwar Hussain for the second test. In spite of all these changes, Pakistan find themselves on the brink of defeat at stumps on day two of the second test.
Bangladesh scored a massive total of 361 in the first innings. This may prove to be unconquerable by an inexperienced Pakistani side and may very well lead Bangladesh to a victory. Every cricketing guru has and will agree that having top class middle-order is a boon for Bangladesh. On the other hand Pakistan never looked imposing. They had to work very hard to get Bangladesh wickets and were often frustrated by the lack of world-class bowlers.
The Bangladesh Minister of Truth, Altaf Hossain, has said that god-willing, Bangladesh is en-route to the world-cup finals and that can be attributed to the recent poor performances of Australia, England etc.. On the other hand he cautioned the team to treat Maldives seriously (a direct reference to the Soccer success of Maldives in the recent years.)
Pakistan was trailing by some 200 plus runs with their top-order crumbling. It will be very interesting to see how Pakistan avoids follow-on in the third day. Bangladesh captain Khaled Mahmud, enjoying a Bardmanesque Bowling average struck early to remove the opener. The captain loves to lead by example. Pakistan will surely play for a draw which will be enough for their ego.
At the end of the second day the Underdog Pakistan is sitting on 134/2 , a score that should surprise all the cricket critics of the World. But with Bangladesh's Fire Powers, specially the furious Almgir Kabir, taking the wickets of the likes of Inzi, Yosuf, shohib Malik, Rashid should be walk in the park. Even though the Underdog Pakistan had a good day today, be rest assured they should crumble by lunch tomorrow.
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