Marshall-Biplob drew inspiration from the legendary Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman

In Sylhet, Dhaka Metro found relief in the inspirational 182-run partnership between Marshall Ayub and Aminul Islam Biplob. Chasing Khulna's imposing total of 397, Metro was forced to follow-on at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. On day two, they began their second innings without losing any wickets by the end of the day.

After falling into the follow-on, Metro’s coach Mizanur Rahman Babul shared a story with Marshall and Biplob to lift their spirits and inspire a fightback. He referenced the legendary 376-run partnership between Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens.

Back in 2001, India had to follow-on after being bowled out for 171 in response to Australia’s 445. In India’s second innings, Laxman (280) and Dravid (180) crafted a 376-run stand for the fifth wicket, setting a target of 384 for Australia and eventually winning the match by 171 runs.

It seems the story of Dravid and Laxman worked as a source of motivation for Marshall and Biplob in Sylhet. Though Metro lost four quick wickets on the third day, Marshall and Biplob’s resilient 131-run partnership helped stabilize the innings. Marshall scored a brilliant century (150), while Biplob added a valuable 73. Their 182-run stand for the fifth wicket not only pulled Metro back into the match but also put them in a position to dream of a win, as they now hold a lead of 206 runs.

Reflecting on the comeback, Coach Mizanur Rahman Babul said, “In 2001, during Australia's tour of India, they set a target of 445. India followed-on, but with the 376-run partnership between Dravid (180) and Laxman (281), India scored 657 and eventually won the match. This story gave the boys hope. It’s working out on the field now.”

Babul remains optimistic, suggesting that Sylhet might witness a result favorable to Metro, similar to the iconic Eden Gardens comeback. However, he remains cautious, saying, "It’s too early to predict. There’s still a lot left in this match."