Pakistan opt to field in must-win Sylhet Test

Pakistan won the toss and elected to field first against Bangladesh in the second and final Test of the series being played in Sylhet on Friday. With Bangladesh already leading the two-match series 1-0, the contest carries significant importance for the visiting side, which is aiming to avoid a series defeat.

Pakistan captain Shan Masood announced several changes to the playing XI following the team’s disappointing performance in the opening Test. Former captain Babar Azam returned to the lineup alongside fast bowler Khurram Shahzad and spinner Sajid Khan.

Meanwhile, opener Imam-ul-Haq, pacer Shaheen Afridi and spinner Nauman Ali were left out of the squad as the management looked to strengthen both the batting and bowling departments.

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Pakistan struggled badly in the first Test, especially during the run chase. Chasing a target of 268, the batting lineup collapsed under pressure and the team was bowled out for just 163 runs. The defeat raised concerns over consistency in both the top order and the bowling attack.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, will enter the match with confidence after securing a memorable victory in the series opener. The hosts now have a strong opportunity to register a historic Test series win over Pakistan on home soil.

Cricket fans are expecting a competitive encounter in Sylhet as Pakistan attempts to level the series while Bangladesh looks to maintain its momentum and seal the series. Weather and pitch conditions are also expected to play a crucial role as the Test progresses over the next five days.