Pakistan pace legend Wasim Akram has delivered a candid assessment of Pakistan’s back-to-back Test defeats to Bangladesh, expressing disappointment with the visitors’ performance while also praising the hosts for their major progress in red-ball cricket.
Bangladesh sealed the series victory on the final morning, with their bowlers taking the last three Pakistan wickets to complete a comprehensive win.
The result marked Bangladesh’s first-ever Test series win over Pakistan at home. It also added to their recent success against Pakistan in the format, following their previous two-Test series victory in Rawalpindi in 2024.
Reflecting on the series, Akram praised Bangladesh’s improvement in all departments. He particularly highlighted their better understanding of home conditions, stronger player development, and the emergence of fast bowling talent, which he believes played a decisive role in outclassing Pakistan.
“Really disappointed to see Pakistan beaten for the second time by Bangladesh, but full praise and marks to the winners as they played complete cricket,” Akram said.
Akram also pointed to Bangladesh’s shift away from traditionally low, slow, spin-friendly surfaces toward more balanced Test pitches that offer assistance to fast bowlers. He praised emerging pacer Nahid Rana for his impressive performances and growing influence at the highest level.
“Bangladesh used to have low, slow and big turners but now they preparing great test pitches, helping their fast-rising pace bowlers who outpaced Pakistan. Bangladesh are now ready to compete against the best in this format. And what a talent Nahid Rana is treat to watch. Congrats Bangladesh,” he added.
Chasing a challenging target of 437, Pakistan were bowled out for 358 in 97.2 overs, with Taijul Islam leading Bangladesh’s bowling effort through a superb spin performance.
Mohammad Rizwan provided Pakistan’s strongest resistance with a fighting 94 from 166 balls, including 10 boundaries. Sajid Khan also contributed 28 off 36 deliveries, striking five fours as Pakistan attempted to build a late fightback.
Taijul finished with outstanding figures of 6 for 120 in 34.2 overs. Nahid Rana claimed two wickets, while Shoriful Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz took one wicket each in a disciplined and sustained bowling display.
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