"We need to work harder over the next two days. We have to bat for another two and a half sessions at least tomorrow," said Mahmud after the third day's play ended yesterday.

"You can not predict anything in cricket. For us it is important to go out there and occupy the crease for as long as possible to earn a good result," said the 33-year old skipper adding that Saturday's first session would be crucial for his team.

"If we can overcome the first session tomorrow and take a lead of around three hundred runs, I think we have a chance to win. But again I would say that we have to work really hard."

Mahmud thought that left-arm spinner Mohammad Rafique could enjoy bowling on the wicket that had already started breaking up.

"Rafique has bowled quite well. If we can take the lead according to our desire, he could be vital in the fourth innings."

Mahmud praised his bowlers for doing the right job in the morning session when Pakistan lost their last five wickets adding only 45 runs.

"Everything has gone right so far but again we need to continue with that for another two days."

On Bashar's unbeaten 82, Mahmud said that the right hander showed exactly how things should be done.

"Hats off to him. If he can continue tomorrow in the same way he batted today, we definitely have a chance."

Coach Dave Whatmore also praised Bashar and said his was the sort of effort the team required.

"You have to give him some credit for what he did. He batted for nearly four hours today which is very good for Bangladesh cricket. He batted really well," said Whatmore.

When asked whether he can foresee a win in this match, the former Australian Test cap declined to comment.