Bangladesh fought hard all the way to the end despite losing the first Test to a high-flying Pakistan side, something they have lacked in recent international matches. The second match of the series will commence on Saturday, December 4 at the SBNCS in Mirpur. Shakib Al Hasan, as well as pacer Taskin Ahmed, will be available for the second Test. Shakib’s presence will certainly affect the outcome of the contest. Shakib Al Hasan's likely impact in the upcoming BAN vs PAK 2nd Test 2021 is discussed in this article.

How can Shakib Al Hasan make an impact in the second Test?

Shakib Al Hasan was unable to play in the first Test match due to a hamstring injury. He went for a fitness test and passed it on Monday. Therefore, the selectors picked Shakib for the final Test. They also selected top-order batsman Mohammad Naim and bowler Taskin Ahmed, who was forced out of the first encounter owing to a finger injury.

Mohammad Naim's selection was the most unexpected, considering he is primarily known as a limited-overs specialist batter. It would be interesting to see if he replaces Saif Hasan or Shadman Islam in the next game. Because Naim's first-class track record isn't exactly great. He only averaged 16.63 in six first-class outings. It's really unclear what criteria the selectors apply to choose a player.

Read: Tigers humiliated at home as Pakistan seal Chattogram Test

Given Bangladesh's first-match performance, two changes appear to be inevitable for the second Test. Shakib Al Hasan will most likely replace Yasir Ali or one of the openers, while Taskin Ahmed may likely replace Abu Jayed Chowdhury Rahi.

Shakib Al Hasan's primary goal in the match will be to strengthen Bangladesh's middle order. In the opening match, Mushfiqur Rahim and Liton Das were among the leading run-scorers. So, Shakib's inclusion will bolster the middle-order. Bangladesh team management will be expecting a more consistent performance from the batsmen in the presence of veteran Shakib.

However, Shakib will have a greater influence in the bowling department. Taijul Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz looked sturdy against Pakistan's batters in the first match of the series. Adding Shakib Al Hasan would provide more variety and luxury for skipper Mominul Haque when it comes to rotating the bowlers. Shakib has a stellar record at the Mirpur ground along with Mehidy and Taijul. The three can cause havoc on Pakistan's batting lineups with their spin bowling diversity.

Read World Peace Conf: A friendly cricket match held in city

Top 3 most wicket-takers at the SBNCS, Mirpur (Test format)

   Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/

BAN vs PAK 2nd Test 2021: Second Match Venue Stats       

The Sher-e-Bangla stadium in Mirpur will host the second Test between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

2nd Test Venue: SBNCS, Mirpur

Test Matches Played: 21 | Bat-first (won): 11 | Bat-Second (won): 7 | Highest Individual Innings: 226 (Azhar Ali) | Best Bowling Figure (Match): 12/117 (Mehidy Hasan Miraz) | Highest Team Innings: 730/6d | Lowest Team Innings: 110     

Bangladesh’s Test record (SBNCS): Win: 6 | Lost: 12 | Draw: 3

Pakistan’s Test record (SBNCS): Win: 2 | Lost: 0

   Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/

Bottom Line

On paper, Pakistan will be the favourite in the BAN vs PAK 2nd Test 2021 match. The visitors will be under less pressure heading into this encounter because they have taken a 1-0 series lead. Pakistan will win the series with a draw in the second Test. However, Pakistan would face serious criticism if they lose the contest. Therefore, they will play the game with the aim of whitewashing the home team. 

Read: ICC Ranking Update: Nabi catches up Shakib

Bangladesh can impede their momentum by crafting a perfect strategy for this match. Moreover, the presence of Shakib Al Hasan would motivate the Bangladeshi team to achieve their goal in the competition. Overall, the Pakistan tour of Bangladesh 2021 could finish in a closely contested match.