Mehidy Hasan Miraz led Bangladesh’s bowling effort on day three of the first Test against Pakistan at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur.
The off-spinner took five wickets as Bangladesh secured a first innings lead and stayed in front by stumps.
Pakistan started the day on 179 for 1 with Azan Awais unbeaten on 85. The debutant opener completed a brilliant century in the morning and became one of Pakistan’s bright spots. His fine innings ended on 103 from 165 balls when Taskin Ahmed forced an edge to Najmul Hossain Shanto at slip.
Taskin struck again soon after. Pakistan captain Shan Masood scored only 9 before driving to Shadman Islam at point.
Mehidy then took charge. He dismissed Imam ul Haq, Saud Shakeel for zero, and debutant Abdullah Fazal, who had played well for his 60.
Pakistan were in serious trouble before Salman Ali Agha got a huge escape. He was dismissed on zero when Pakistan were 231 for 5, but Taskin Ahmed had bowled a no ball.
That moment changed the session. Salman settled in and used the sweep well against Mehidy and Taijul Islam. He reached a fighting fifty after making full use of his second chance.
Mohammad Rizwan also played a key role and scored his 13th Test fifty. The pair helped Pakistan recover before Taijul removed Rizwan for 59 with Pakistan on 349 for 6.
Mehidy kept striking and completed his 14th Test five wicket haul. It was his seventh five wicket haul in Mirpur and his second against Pakistan.
Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 386, which left them 27 runs behind Bangladesh’s first innings total of 413.
Bangladesh had a short time to bat before bad light stopped play. Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shadman Islam took Bangladesh to 7 without loss in 1.5 overs.
Bangladesh will begin day four on 7 for 0 with a lead of 34 runs.
