'It is 50-50': Taijul wary despite setting Pakistan massive target

Bangladesh spinner Taijul Islam said his side will need to remain disciplined against Pakistan despite setting a mammoth 437-run target with two days remaining in the Sylhet Test. He added that the wicket was still aiding batters, leaving the game wide open.

Bangladesh's batters piled on the runs on Day 3 after surviving a testing morning session, with Mushfiqur Rahim scoring a masterful 137.

"Look, this is the fourth innings. But the wicket is still good," Taijul said. "We also have to remain disciplined. Right now it is fifty-fifty. Whichever side performs better has a greater chance of winning. Discipline is very important now."

Taijul added that Bangladesh would have a psychological edge due to the imposing target, giving them a chance to complete a historic series whitewash.

"When they see the target number, many things may work in their minds," he noted.

"Maybe if we could have added 20, 30, 40 more runs, it would have been better. There is no point in being frustrated because you can't always be 100% in everything."

Meanwhile, Pakistan pace bowling coach Umar Gul insisted his side had not given up hope.

"We have two days left. Even with overcast conditions or rain, we are mentally prepared. If we bat through the full duration, there is a chance to win because we aren't just looking for a draw," said Gul.

"We are prepared for the chase. Two or three good partnerships will be very important. To chase 437 runs, you have to be brave and play positive cricket. In cricket, anything is possible."

"On the first day, the wicket supported the bowlers due to moisture. On the second and third days, it has been perfectly good for batters. The ball is coming onto the bat giving batters a lot of time. The pitch remains very good for batting."

Gul added that Bangladesh's batting unit deserved credit for how they handled Pakistan's bowling attack throughout the series.

"I think the Bangladesh batters played very well. In some instances, we were unlucky with play-and-miss moments, and we missed some opportunities for reviews. That prevented us from getting them out early, especially in their first innings. Sometimes decisions go in your favour, and sometimes they don't – it is part of the game," he concluded.