Pakistan’s recent Test record at home has indeed been a cause for concern, with only four draws and four losses in their last eight matches over the past three years. This is a significant decline from their traditionally strong home performances where they were once a formidable side.
In the current Test series against Bangladesh, which started at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan is under intense scrutiny. The team needs to leverage their home advantage and address their recent inconsistency to regain their dominant status.
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The Rawalpindi pitch, known for offering pace and bounce, might provide an opportunity for Pakistan’s fast bowlers to exploit Bangladesh’s batting weaknesses. However, consistency and application will be crucial, as past performances have shown Pakistan’s tendency to falter in crucial moments.
Looking at the performance of other teams at home over the last three years:
- England: 18 matches, 13 wins, 4 losses, 1 draw (Win %: 72.22)
- Australia: 15 matches, 12 wins, 1 loss, 2 draws (Win %: 80.00)
- India: 13 matches, 9 wins, 2 losses, 2 draws (Win %: 69.23)
- New Zealand: 12 matches, 7 wins, 5 losses (Win %: 58.33)
- South Africa: 9 matches, 7 wins, 2 losses (Win %: 77.78)
- Sri Lanka: 11 matches, 7 wins, 4 losses (Win %: 63.64)
- Bangladesh: 12 matches, 3 wins, 8 losses, 1 draw (Win %: 25.00)
- West Indies: 9 matches, 3 wins, 2 losses, 4 draws (Win %: 33.33)
- Pakistan: 8 matches, 0 wins, 4 losses, 4 draws (Win %: 0.00)
Pakistan’s record is notably poorer compared to other teams, highlighting the need for significant improvement if they are to restore their reputation as a strong home side. The upcoming series against Bangladesh is a critical opportunity for them to start reversing their fortunes and demonstrating their capability in familiar conditions.