Basit Ali Urges Pakistan Batters to ‘Learn from Bangladesh’ After 437-Run Target

“Learn from Bangladesh” – Basit Ali’s Verdict on Pakistan’s Batting Woes

Following Bangladesh’s imposing declaration at 437 in the second Test, former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali delivered a blunt yet insightful critique of Pakistan’s batting approach—while showering praise on the visitors’ masterclass in Test-match discipline.

Mushfiqur and Litton Set the Standard

Ali focused his admiration on Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das, whose composed and technically sound batting laid the foundation for Bangladesh’s commanding position. In his YouTube analysis, Ali emphasized how both batters exemplified the temperament required for the longest format of the game.

“Litton and Mushfiqur batted in a way others should learn from,” Ali said. “What do we always say? A Test match is always a Test match—it’s played session by session.”

Shot Selection and Composure Underline Success

Ali was particularly impressed with Mushfiqur Rahim’s controlled aggression and intelligent shot selection. He highlighted how the veteran wicketkeeper-batter adapted his game to the situation, never forcing the issue but capitalizing when the opportunity arose.

“How did Mushfiqur Rahim hit his boundaries and sixes? He played on merit. He played the ball as it came,” Ali observed. “In Test cricket, everything is tested, and he responded perfectly.”

He commended Mushfiqur’s technique, especially the way he played the ball close to his body—a hallmark of elite-level batting. “This is what our batters should do,” Ali stressed. Recalling coaching lessons from his youth, he added, “Our coaches used to teach us: if you play close to the body, you won’t get out. If you play away from the body, you are gone.”

Building Innings Session by Session

Ali praised Bangladesh’s disciplined start to the day’s play, pointing out that they scored 93 runs in the first session with just one wicket lost. “Until lunch, look how they handled it. You have to respect Test cricket. They respected the red ball and played accordingly,” he said, underlining the professionalism that allowed them to post a massive total.

A Partnership That Defined the Innings

The 123-run stand between Litton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim was, according to Ali, the cornerstone of the innings. He also noted the valuable 77-run contribution from Mushfiqur and tail-ender Taijul Islam, a reflection of Bangladesh’s positive lower-order mindset.

“Their tail-enders contribute, but in our case it feels like ‘just get out quickly,’” Ali remarked, drawing a stark contrast with Pakistan’s recent batting collapses. “They don’t panic against pace, but our batters do.”

Mentality Matters: Gloves Thrown, Not Hands Raised

Ali interpreted Mushfiqur’s gesture of throwing his gloves after dismissal as a sign of deep commitment. “When Mushfiqur Rahim walked off, he threw his gloves. That means he wanted Bangladesh’s innings to continue,” Ali said, calling it a symbol of a batter’s desire to do more for the team.

He reiterated his admiration: “Mushfiqur Rahim is top class. This is what a Test innings looks like. Watching such class is a pleasure.”

A Message to Pakistan’s Batters

Ali ended with a direct message for Pakistan’s struggling lineup. Highlighting Litton Das’s consistent fifty-plus scores and century in the series, he urged the team’s batsmen to study Bangladesh’s approach.

“They should learn from Mushfiqur’s batting how to play Test cricket properly,” Ali concluded—a challenge not just in technique, but in mindset, patience, and respect for the format.