PAK vs BAN: Here's why Sarfaraz replaced Rizwan as wicketkeeper in second innings

Former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed took over the wicketkeeping duties for Pakistan in the second innings of the Rawalpindi Test against Bangladesh, replacing Mohammad Rizwan, who was initially named in the playing XI.

Pakistan's second innings ended abruptly as they were bowled out for 172. Bangladesh's fast bowlers Hasan Mahmud (5-43), Nahid Rana (4-44), and Taskin Ahmed (1-40) made history by taking all ten wickets in a single innings, a first for Bangladesh’s pace attack. The visitors were set a target of 185 runs to win.

Following a challenging day at the crease, Pakistan faced further setbacks when Rizwan did not appear on the field for the fourth innings. Sarfaraz Ahmed, who was not included in the starting XI, took over the wicketkeeping duties.

Rizwan had been struck on the side of his helmet by a bouncer from Nahid Rana during the third innings. Despite showing signs of discomfort, Rizwan managed to score 28 runs off 34 balls before leaving the field.

While there has been no official statement from the Pakistan camp regarding Rizwan's absence from the fourth innings, the scorers listed him as a normal substitute. This has led to speculation that Rizwan’s withdrawal was not due to a concussion, although no official diagnosis has been provided.

It is worth noting that Bangladesh secured their first-ever Test victory over Pakistan in the series opener by ten wickets and are now on the brink of winning the Test series.