The Test series between Pakistan and Bangladesh has started after a minor delay due to overnight rain.
The toss, which took place at 2:00 PM local time, saw Bangladesh win and choose to bowl first. The decision was likely influenced by the moist pitch, which Bangladesh hoped would benefit their bowlers.
To make up for lost time, 48 overs are planned for the first day, with play extending until 6:00 PM and an extra 30 minutes reserved if needed to complete the overs.
The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium’s outfield, wet from the rain, caused multiple pitch inspections before conditions were deemed playable in the early afternoon.
This series is vital for both teams in the ICC World Test Championship. Pakistan, under Shan Masood and new head coach Jason Gillespie, seeks to capitalise on home advantage after a challenging series in Australia.
Bangladesh, despite internal challenges and a tough series against Sri Lanka, aims to demonstrate their strength.