Bangladesh, faced with a daunting challenge going into the final day of their second Test against India, has adopted a safety-first approach, as emphasized by all-rounder Mehidy Hasan. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Mehidy expressed optimism that the team could salvage the match if the batters can hold steady for at least one session on the concluding day. The weather has already played havoc with the game, leading to the loss of two-and-a-half days, but India remained relentless in their pursuit of a result, riding on explosive half-centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul.
The contrasting approaches of the two teams were starkly evident as India declared their first innings at 285-9, amassing the total in just 34.4 overs after bundling Bangladesh out for 233 runs. In response, Bangladesh struggled to gain a foothold, scoring 26-2 in 11 overs when the stumps were drawn for the day.
Reflecting on the day’s play, Mehidy remarked, “Actually, they played with a good plan and yes, I was surprised. After two-three overs, we figured out they had a strategy in place. We just played to our strengths and tried to minimize the damages to our innings.” He acknowledged the pressures and unpredictability inherent in Test cricket, likening India’s onslaught to a T20 approach. “In Test cricket, you see all kinds of scenarios. The way the game evolved, it looked like T20 cricket. They came with the intent to win, and everyone from top to bottom focused on scoring runs. We tried to restrict those runs as best as we could.”
Despite the challenging circumstances, Mehidy remains hopeful. “Test cricket is unpredictable and anything can happen. We’re not out of the game yet. We have turned matches around from similar positions before. The pitch still has a lot to offer to the batsmen. If our batters can hold their nerve for just one session, it will reflect positively on us,” he said.
Acknowledging the near-impossibility of a win given their current position, Mehidy stressed the importance of playing for a draw.
. “We need more time if we want to play for a win. With just one day left, our first priority is safety, not victory. We need to bat for a long time tomorrow. If a situation arises where we can push for a win, we’ll take it. But for now, our main focus is to save the game,” he explained.
Mehidy also conceded that the team had failed to provide adequate support to centurion Mominul Haque, which could have placed them in a more favorable position. Mominul remained unbeaten on 107 runs but received limited assistance from his teammates. “The first innings is very crucial in Test matches. Mominul bhai played exceptionally well. Unfortunately, we couldn’t support him enough. Had we done so, the game could have been in a different position,” Mehidy lamented.
He further praised Mominul’s batting acumen, underscoring his impeccable shot selection and temperament. “Mominul’s choice of shots was very good, and he batted beautifully after a long time. His temperament was impressive, which is why he was able to score well,” Mehidy added.
Shifting the focus to the bowling department, Mehidy applauded Shakib Al Hasan for his stellar performance, emphasizing his experience and skill in adapting to the aggressive gameplay displayed by the Indian batsmen. “Shakib bowled brilliantly. Considering the manner in which India played on this wicket, he managed to bowl exceptionally well. His extensive experience, particularly in T20 cricket, enabled him to understand what needed to be done. His contribution of four wickets was crucial for us,” Mehidy noted.
As Bangladesh prepares for the final day of this closely contested Test match, all eyes will be on how their batters respond to the pressure. With a focus on resiliency and a glimmer of hope, Mehidy Hasan and his team are ready to give their all to secure a draw and prevent a series loss.