Khurram Shahzad credits Jason Gillespie for breakthrough performance against Bangladesh

Pakistan cricketer, Khurram Shahzad, credited Pakistan's red-ball coach, Jason Gillespie, after his impressive performance against Bangladesh in the second Test in Rawalpindi. 

Shahzad delivered a stunning spell, taking six wickets for 90 runs in 21 overs, ripping through the Bangladeshi batting lineup. His efforts included dismissing Mehidy Hasan Miraz, which marked his first-ever five-wicket haul in Test cricket.

Shahzad's fiery spell with the new ball left Bangladesh reeling at 26 for six in just 11.3 overs. The 24-year-old fast bowler, who had taken two wickets in the first Test, expressed his gratitude towards Gillespie for his encouragement and support.

“Credit goes to Jason Gillespie for motivating me. He has kept me positive and backed me,” Shahzad said.

Despite Pakistan's strong start, they were unable to maintain the pressure on Bangladesh's batting lineup. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Litton Das staged a remarkable recovery, putting together a 165-run partnership for the seventh wicket. Mehidy scored 78, while Litton played a brilliant knock of 138 runs, which included 13 fours and four sixes.

Litton continued to build on his innings, sharing a vital 69-run stand with Hasan Mahmud, allowing Bangladesh to close in on Pakistan's lead, ultimately conceding just 12 runs in their first innings. Shahzad acknowledged that Pakistan missed the opportunity to capitalize on their early breakthroughs.

“The surface was a little different, it was more helpful. The rest, such phases come. We took early wickets, but unfortunately, they put on a good partnership,” Shahzad added.

Shahzad, who made his Test debut last year against Australia in Perth, also spoke about his ambitions to continue representing Pakistan in Test cricket.

“I want to play Test cricket as long as possible and help Pakistan win as many matches as possible,” Shahzad concluded.