Bangladesh all-rounder Mehidy Hasan stated on Monday that the team can save the second Test against India if their batters can maintain their composure and secure their wickets during a single crucial session on the final day. Despite the weather-induced interruptions that cost two-and-a-half days of play, India intensified their efforts to force a result in the rain-affected second Test against Bangladesh. This aggressive push was bolstered by explosive half-centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul.
India set the tempo by declaring their first innings at 285-9 in just 34.4 overs, following their efficient bowling performance that saw Bangladesh dismissed for 233 runs in their first innings. When play ceased on the penultimate day, Bangladesh had scored 26-2 in 11 overs, with the team’s hopes of saving the match hanging in the balance.
Mehidy reflected on India’s strategy and its impact on the game. “India executed their plan well and yes, it caught us by surprise initially,” Mehidy remarked to reporters after the day’s play. “We quickly realized they had a specific plan in mind. We relied on our strengths and aimed to minimize damage to our innings.”
He added, “Test cricket can present various scenarios, and the match progressed in a way that resembled a T20 game. India clearly came with the intent to win. Their entire batting lineup focused on scoring runs, and we aimed to contain them.”
Discussing the possibilities that the final day might hold, Mehidy remained cautiously optimistic, “In Test cricket, anything can happen. It’s not a foregone conclusion that we’ve lost. We’ve managed to turn matches around from similar positions in the past. The pitch is favorable for batting, and if our batters can navigate one session successfully, it could be a positive sign for us.”
However, Mehidy acknowledged the constraints of time and emphasized a pragmatic approach, “If we aim to win, we would need more time.
. With just one day left, we not only have to set a target but also take 10 wickets. For now, ensuring our safety is paramount. We will focus on batting for a prolonged period tomorrow. If the opportunity for a win arises later, we can consider it. Our primary concern is self-preservation at this moment.”
Reflecting on their batting struggle, Mehidy admitted that better support for centurion Mominul Haque could have altered their situation. Mominul remained unbeaten with an impressive 107 runs, but he lacked substantial backing from the other end. “The first innings is crucial in Tests, and Mominul bhai batted exceptionally well,” Mehidy said. “We weren’t able to support him adequately, and if we had, the game could have taken a different turn and put us in a better position.”
He praised Mominul’s batting technique and mental approach, “Mominul’s selection of shots was impeccable. After a period of struggle, he demonstrated great temperament, which enabled him to score runs.”
In addition to commending Mominul, Mehidy lauded Shakib Al Hasan’s bowling prowess. Shakib, who claimed four wickets in the match, showcased his experience and skill, particularly during India’s aggressive batting spells. “Shakib bowled brilliantly considering the conditions and the way the opposition was playing,” Mehidy noted. “He’s an experienced cricketer, and his success in the T20 format gave him the insight to manage their aggressive approach effectively.”
With all eyes on the final day, Bangladesh hopes to draw strength from these performances and lessons learned. Mehidy Hasan’s strategy underscores the importance of resilience and calculated risk as Bangladesh gears up to face India’s formidable challenge, aiming to save the match and possibly capitalize on any forthcoming opportunities to turn the tide in their favor.