Bangladesh ended the first day of the opening Test against Pakistan in a strong position after captain Najmul Hossain Shanto scored a brilliant century at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Friday.
According to Beyond Time News, Bangladesh finished the day at 301-4 after being asked to bat first in hot and humid conditions.
Early Trouble for Bangladesh After Toss Decision
Pakistan captain Shan Masood won the toss and chose to bowl first, hoping to take advantage of early conditions.
The decision initially worked as Bangladesh lost both openers inside the first hour. Shaheen Shah Afridi struck early, removing Mahmudul Hasan Joy for 8 after an early dropped chance.
Soon after, Hasan Ali dismissed Shadman Islam for 13, leaving Bangladesh struggling at 31-2.
Shanto and Mominul Lead Strong Recovery
Bangladesh recovered strongly thanks to a massive 170-run partnership between Shanto and experienced batter Mominul Haque.
Shanto played an aggressive and confident innings, scoring 101 off 130 balls with 12 boundaries and two sixes. Mominul also batted well and contributed 91 runs before being dismissed.
Their partnership became Bangladesh’s highest third-wicket stand against Pakistan, shifting momentum firmly in the hosts’ favour.
Mushfiqur and Litton Add Stability Late in the Day
After the dismissal of the top order, veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das added valuable runs.
Mushfiqur remained unbeaten on 48, showing calm control against Pakistan’s bowling attack. Litton Das also stayed not out at the end of play.
Their partnership helped Bangladesh maintain control and avoid a late collapse.
Pakistan Bowlers Struggle in Tough Conditions
Pakistan’s pace attack worked hard but failed to maintain consistency in humid conditions.
Mohammad Abbas was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 1-51, but overall Pakistan conceded 32 extras, including no-balls and byes.
The visitors also struggled to extract movement from the pitch, which offered little assistance for fast bowlers.
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Pakistan Aim for Early Breakthroughs on Day 2
Abbas admitted Pakistan will need early wickets to restrict Bangladesh’s total.
Pakistan are now aiming to bowl Bangladesh out under 400 to stay competitive in the match. The pitch is expected to assist spinners later in the game, which could make the contest even more challenging for the batting side.
Bangladesh Take Control After Strong Opening Day
Despite early setbacks, Bangladesh dominated large parts of the day through disciplined batting and key partnerships.
With Shanto’s century setting the tone, Bangladesh will look to build on their strong position on the second day, while Pakistan search for a comeback in this important ICC Test Championship clash.
