Bangladesh’s versatile all-rounder, Mehidy Hasan, expressed a cautious optimism on Monday, emphasizing that Bangladesh still has the potential to save the second Test match against India if their batters remain composed during a crucial session on the final day. Despite the loss of two-and-a-half days to poor weather, India sought to secure a result in this rain-affected contest with a showcase of explosive batting by Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul, who both registered blistering half-centuries.
In this Test match, India made a commanding declaration of their first innings at 285-9, having played just 34.4 overs following their bowling effort that skittled out Bangladesh for 233 runs. As Bangladesh embarked on their tricky second innings, they concluded the day at 26-2 in 11 overs, setting the stage for a dramatic final day of play.
Reflecting on the day’s play, Mehidy said, “They executed their plan with precision, and honestly, I was taken aback by their approach. After just a few overs, it became evident that they had a clear strategy in place. We aimed to play to our strengths, focusing on minimizing the damage inflicted on our innings.”
The compelling nature of Test cricket was highlighted by Mehidy, as he noted, “In Test cricket, every game can present unique challenges, and at times the contest mirrors the intensity normally reserved for T20 matches. India’s intent was obvious—they arrived with the goal to win, and from their top order down, everyone sought to amass runs. Our task was to restrict those runs.”
Mehidy continued to stress the unpredictable nature of Test cricket, stating, “Anything is possible in this format, and while it’s not a guarantee of defeat, we have often found ways to perform remarkably well from such challenging positions. It’s entirely within our ability to take the opportunity, especially since the pitch appears favorable for batting. If our batters can successfully anchor just one session, we have a good chance at a positive outcome.”
Mehidy also emphasized the need for a strategic approach on the final day. “Our priority right now is safety.
. We face a daunting task with just one day left—scoring enough to set a target and then taking ten wickets. For now, our immediate concern is ensuring our safety over pursuing the win. Our plan is to bat as long as we can tomorrow. If the situation shifts, we might consider pushing for a win, but above all, we need to look after our position first.”
In his candid assessment, Mehidy admitted the team fell short in supporting Mominul Haque during his outstanding innings, acknowledging that with more backing, the match could have taken a different trajectory. Mominul stood resilient, scoring an unbeaten 107, yet found scant support from his teammates.
“The first innings shapes a Test match significantly, and Mominul bhai was extraordinary. Unfortunately, we couldn’t extend the support he deserved. Had we managed to do that, the game might have unfolded more favorably for us,” Mehidy noted.
He further praised Mominul’s skill, highlighting his excellent shot selection and impressive temperament, which contributed to his scoring success.
Furthermore, Mehidy credited Shakib Al Hasan’s pivotal role in restricting India’s aggressive gameplay, recognizing his four-wicket haul as crucial. “Shakib bowled exceptionally under challenging circumstances. Given the way they attacked the wicket, his experience, particularly from his T20 success, was instrumental in understanding how to counter their aggression effectively.”
With the final day on the horizon, Bangladesh finds themselves in a position of both vulnerability and potential. With Mehidy advocating for a safety-first strategy, the team hopes to channel their inner resilience in the concluding session to stave off defeat and perhaps even aim for a memorable draw.