The heartbeat of Pakistan’s dominance was veteran fast bowler Mohammad Abbas, whose relentless accuracy carved through the Bangladeshi batting line up.

The seasoned pacer claimed 5 wickets for 92 runs, registering the sixth five wicket haul of his Test career and once again proving why he remains one of Pakistan’s most dependable red-ball craftsmen.

Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 413, a total that once looked capable of stretching far beyond Pakistan’s comfort zone. But Abbas shifted the rhythm of the match with a spell that blended control with quiet menace.

For Bangladesh, veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim marked his 39th birthday with a polished 71-run knock, holding the innings together with trademark composure before Pakistan’s bowlers tightened the screws.

Pakistan’s reply, however, carried the energy of a side eager to move the game forward rather than merely survive it.

After Imam-ul-Haq fell for a fluent 45, the spotlight shifted to two debutants who looked far more settled than their experience suggested. Young opener Azan Awais absorbed the pressure with striking maturity, remaining unbeaten on 85 with an innings built on timing, calm judgement and selective aggression.

At the other end, fellow debutant Abdullah Fazal quietly stitched together an assured 37 not out, frustrating Bangladesh’s bowlers and adding valuable stability to Pakistan’s chase.

By stumps, Pakistan had reached 179 for 1, trimming the deficit steadily and leaving Bangladesh searching for breakthroughs that never truly arrived.

What stood out most was the contrast in momentum. Bangladesh began the day hoping to build authority with the bat, yet by evening it was Pakistan dictating the tempo through a blend of seasoned precision and youthful confidence.

In many ways, the second day belonged to two generations at once — Abbas reminding everyone of the value of patience and craft, while Pakistan’s new batting faces hinted at a future that may be arriving sooner than expected.