Bangladesh closed the opening day of the first Test against Pakistan on 301 for 4 after captain Najmul Hossain Shanto’s brilliant century and a strong middle-order fightback.
The hosts were in early trouble after losing both openers for just 31 runs. Pakistan made a sharp start, but Shanto and Mominul Haque changed the course of the day with a huge partnership.
The pair built a record 170-run stand for the third wicket against Pakistan. It was also Bangladesh’s third-highest third-wicket partnership in Test cricket.
Shanto played with confidence from the start. He attacked loose balls and kept the scoreboard moving. Mominul took a calmer route and stayed true to his patient Test style. Together, they frustrated Pakistan’s bowlers for a long period.
Shanto reached his ninth Test century in style with a fine cover drive. The hundred came off 129 balls and marked his fourth century in the last eight innings. He also became Bangladesh’s most successful Test captain in terms of centuries with five.
But his joy was short. On the next ball, Mohammad Abbas trapped him lbw with an inswinger. The umpire first gave him not out, but Pakistan reviewed. Ball tracking showed the delivery would hit the stumps, and the decision changed. Shanto left the field disappointed after scoring 100 off 130 balls with 12 fours and 2 sixes.
Mominul continued to bat with discipline and looked set for a century of his own. But Noman Ali stopped him on 91. A skidding ball beat his defense and struck him on the pads. Mominul reviewed, but the decision stayed. His innings ended at 91 from 200 balls, leaving him with his first nervous ninety in Tests.
Before getting out, Mominul also added 75 runs with Mushfiqur Rahim.
After his departure, Mushfiqur and Litton Das made sure Bangladesh finished the day without further damage.
Mushfiqur stayed unbeaten on 48, while Litton will resume on day two with 8 not out. Bangladesh now holds a strong position heading into the second day.
