Taijuls Spin Sinks Pakistan as Bangladesh Create History

One catch, and then came the eruption of celebration. When Khurram Shahzad tried to clear the boundary off Taijul Islam’s spin and was comfortably caught by Tanzid Hasan Tamim near the ropes, Bangladesh’s historic victory was sealed. At the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, Bangladesh defeated Pakistan by 78 runs, not only winning the series but also scripting another memorable chapter in their Test history.

Bangladesh clinched the two-match series 2-0, whitewashing Pakistan for the second consecutive time under the leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto. The Tigers had previously achieved the same feat in Rawalpindi in 2024. The victory also lifted Bangladesh to fifth place in the World Test Championship standings.

The final day, however, did not begin comfortably for the hosts. Rain delayed the start by 15 minutes, while Mohammad Rizwan and Sajid Khan continued to frustrate Bangladesh with a patient partnership.

But the momentum shifted completely after the drinks break. Bangladesh returned to the field with renewed intensity and struck quickly. Pakistan, who resumed the day on 316 for 7, added 42 more runs before their eighth-wicket stand was finally broken.

Then came the decisive breakthrough. Mohammad Rizwan, who was closing in on a century, edged Shariful Islam to gully where Mehidy Hasan Miraz completed the catch. His dismissal effectively ended Pakistan’s resistance.

Bangladesh allowed no way back after that. Taijul weaved his spin magic and wrapped up the lower order with ease. Chasing an improbable target of 437, Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 358. The left-arm spinner finished with six wickets to seal a famous victory for Bangladesh.