“We can win this game,” Shafiq said. “If you see today’s batting performance, we’re really hopeful, 120-odd runs are left, and Rizwan is batting, and the way Sajid played in the first innings, we are really hopeful.”
Pakistan were faced with the daunting challenge of achieving the highest chase in Test cricket after Bangladesh set them a target of 437. Their hopes are pinned almost exclusively on Mohammad Rizwan, the last recognised batter. He finished the day unbeaten on 75, but Pakistan’s hopes suffered a huge blow when his 134-run stand with Salman Ali Agha was broken by Taijul Islam late in the day, allowing Bangladesh two wickets that significantly altered the outlook before the final day.
Shafiq was effusive about that partnership, as well as an earlier stand between Shan Masood and Babar Azam, which contributed 92 after the quick loss of both openers. “That’s an amazing comeback as a batting unit because we didn’t have those kinds of partnerships this series. These things we were missing as a batting unit but it’s really good to see it’s coming off now. Our previous three innings this series were not that great, but the way a few of our players stood up today makes me very hopeful.”
Shafiq singled out the Pakistan captain Masood, who has struggled this series, for praise. Masood was key to getting Pakistan through a tricky phase early in the chase alongside Babar, with the pair counterattacking Bangladesh before lunch. Masood scored 71 before Taijul prised him out, offering Pakistan some semblance of a launchpad.
“He’s [Shan] trying really hard in the nets, and it’s just a matter of time that he does well. He batted really well, absorbed the pressure, and once he got loose deliveries, he really capitalised on that.”
Shafiq’s optimism stems partially from his assessment of the surface. “I think this is the best Test match track you can have. There’s something for everyone. A bit of spin, and some seam movement for fast bowlers, especially with the new ball. As a batter you get the value of your shots. I think this is an excellent Test wicket.”
