Litton Das gave Bangladesh some much-needed resistance after Pakistan ripped through the middle order in the second session of the second Test at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
Bangladesh had reached lunch on 101 for 3 after Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim slowed Pakistan’s early charge. But Pakistan’s pacers returned after the break and quickly took back full control.
Mohammad Abbas struck first.
Shanto, who looked set after a patient start, edged a swinging ball outside off stump and departed for 29 off 74 balls. It was another major blow for Bangladesh just when they needed a strong partnership.
Mushfiqur Rahim did not last much longer.
Khurram Shahzad, who replaced Shaheen Shah Afridi in the side, trapped Mushfiqur lbw for 23. Bangladesh suddenly lost both set batters in quick time and the pressure returned immediately.
Khurram then made things worse for the hosts.
He used a bouncer to dismiss Mehidy Hasan Miraz for just 4, leaving Bangladesh’s lower order exposed and Pakistan firmly in command.
From a rebuilding position, Bangladesh were suddenly fighting to avoid a major collapse.
That was when Litton Das stepped in.
The Bangladesh captain played positively and kept the scoreboard moving despite the regular wickets. He looked confident under pressure and gave Bangladesh a fighting chance heading into tea.
Litton also received a lifeline when Sajid Khan dropped a catch off his own bowling.
Taijul Islam then provided useful support at the other end as the pair survived the rest of the session.
At tea, Litton was unbeaten on 42 from 77 balls, while Taijul remained not out on 11 from 31.
Pakistan clearly dominated the second session with the ball, but Litton’s unbeaten knock helped Bangladesh stay alive after another damaging collapse.
