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him the ‘Mr. Dependable’ moniker.

Bangladesh resumed the day on 110 for three with an overall lead of 156, but Pakistan made early inroads when pacer Khurram Shahzad removed captain Najmul Hossain Shanto for 15.

From there, Mushfiqur anchored the innings with patience and control. Initially playing a supporting role to Litton Das, who continued his fluent form with a brisk 69, Mushfiqur helped steady Bangladesh through a crucial 123-run partnership for the fifth wicket.

After Litton fell to Hasan Ali, Mushfiqur shifted gears to further frustrate the visitors. He added 34 runs with Mehidy Hasan Miraz before Khurram produced another breakthrough with an outswinger that bowled Miraz.

Mushfiqur then combined with Taijul Islam in a valuable 77-run eighth-wicket stand that pushed Bangladesh’s lead close to 400. The senior batter expertly shielded Taijul during the 128-ball partnership as Pakistan’s bowlers continued to toil.

Pakistan, set a daunting target of 437, finished the day on nought without loss after two overs. Their highest successful chase in Test history remains 377, meaning they would need a record-breaking effort to deny Bangladesh victory.

With the Tigers already leading the series 1-0, the hosts will head into Day 4 strongly placed to seal a fourth consecutive Test win over Pakistan.