Bangladesh enjoyed a dominant opening day in Mirpur, putting Pakistan firmly on the back foot after reaching 301 for 4 at stumps in the first Test.
Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto led from the front with a composed and authoritative century, anchoring the innings through all three sessions. He shared a massive 170-run partnership for the third wicket with Mominul Haque, who narrowly missed a hundred after falling for 91 in a stand that completely blunted Pakistan’s attack.
Pakistan’s pacers, including Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Abbas, made early inroads by reducing Bangladesh to 31 for 2, but that proved to be their only success for long periods. Mushfiqur Rahim then joined Shanto and ensured there was no late collapse, finishing unbeaten on 48 to steady the innings further.
Despite choosing to bowl first, Pakistan struggled to sustain pressure as Bangladesh dictated terms in all three sessions, scoring exactly 101, 100, and 100 across the day. With two set batters at the crease and momentum firmly with the hosts, Bangladesh will resume Day 2 in a commanding position.
