Bangladesh gained complete control on the opening day of the Mirpur Test against Pakistan after captain Najmul Hossain Shanto scored a superb century. Strong partnerships with Mominul Haque helped the hosts recover from an early collapse and finish the day at 301 for 4 in Dhaka.
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| Najmul Hossain Shanto celebrates his century during the Mirpur Test against Pakistan. Image Source: Instagram/@bangladeshtigers —Edited & Modified by Us |
The opening day of the Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Mirpur belonged entirely to the home side as Bangladesh produced a strong batting performance led by captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. After surviving an early scare, the hosts finished the day in a commanding position with 301 runs for the loss of four wickets.
The match, being played at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, witnessed disciplined batting from Bangladesh after Pakistan made an aggressive decision at the toss.
Pakistan Choose to Bowl First in Dhaka
Pakistan captain decided to field first after winning the toss, hoping to take advantage of early pitch conditions. The strategy appeared successful in the opening session when Bangladesh quickly lost two wickets for just 31 runs.
Young batter Mahmudul Hasan Joy was dismissed after scoring only eight runs, while opener Shadman Islam managed 13 before returning to the pavilion.
Pakistan fast bowlers created pressure with disciplined line and length, giving the visitors an ideal start in the Mirpur Test.
Shanto and Mominul Haque Change the Momentum
Just when Pakistan looked in control, Bangladesh responded with a crucial partnership between captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and experienced batter Mominul Haque.
The pair added 170 runs for the third wicket and completely shifted the momentum of the game. Their partnership frustrated Pakistan’s bowling attack and allowed Bangladesh to settle into a dominant rhythm.
Shanto played with patience and authority, rotating the strike effectively while punishing loose deliveries. His innings reflected maturity, leadership, and excellent shot selection under pressure.
Najmul Hossain Shanto Scores Match Defining Century
Bangladesh captain Shanto reached a magnificent century after a composed and technically solid innings. He scored 101 runs and anchored the innings during the most important phase of the day.
His century not only stabilized Bangladesh after the early wickets but also laid the foundation for a massive first-innings total. The innings highlighted why Shanto has become one of Bangladesh most dependable Test batters in recent years.
The Mirpur crowd applauded the captain responsible knock, which could prove decisive later in the match.
Mominul Haque Continues the Charge
After Shanto dismissal, Mominul Haque continued to dominate alongside veteran wicketkeeper batter Mushfiqur Rahim.
The duo added another valuable 75 run partnership for the fourth wicket. Mominul narrowly missed a century and remained one of the key contributors with an impressive 91 runs.
His calm batting approach helped Bangladesh maintain pressure on Pakistan throughout the final session of the day.
Pakistan Bowlers Struggle for Breakthroughs
Although Pakistan started strongly, the bowling attack struggled to maintain consistent pressure once the partnerships developed.
Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Abbas, and Nauman Ali each picked up one wicket, but Bangladesh batters controlled most of the day.
Pakistan will now need early wickets on day two to prevent the hosts from posting a huge first innings score.
Bangladesh Eye a Massive First Innings Total
With six wickets still in hand and experienced batters at the crease, Bangladesh are now in a strong position to push beyond 450 runs.
The flat Mirpur surface appears increasingly favorable for batting, and Pakistan bowlers may face another challenging day unless they find breakthroughs early in the morning session.
Bangladesh disciplined batting display has already given them a psychological advantage in the Test match.
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