Shanto’s century and Bangladesh’s commanding recovery leave Pakistan searching for answers after difficult opening day
WEBDESK – MEDIABITES NEWS – MIRPUR
Bangladesh national cricket team seized complete control of the opening Test against Pakistan national cricket team after a dominant batting display on Day 1 in Mirpur, leaving Shan Masood’s men under mounting pressure heading into the second day.
After winning the toss and choosing to bowl first, Pakistan initially appeared to have made the perfect decision as Shaheen Shah Afridi and Hasan Ali struck early to reduce Bangladesh to 31/2 within the opening hour.
But once the new-ball threat faded, Pakistan quickly lost control of the contest.
Shanto leads Bangladesh’s fightback
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto absorbed the early pressure brilliantly before launching a composed counterattack that completely shifted momentum in the hosts’ favor.
Partnered by the experienced Mominul Haque, Shanto stitched together a magnificent 170-run partnership that frustrated Pakistan throughout the second session.
The pair rotated strike comfortably, punished loose deliveries and took full advantage of a flattening Mirpur pitch as Pakistan’s bowlers struggled for consistency.
Shanto eventually completed a superb century before Mohammad Abbas finally broke the stand shortly before Tea.
Pakistan run out of answers
The final session followed the same pattern, with Bangladesh tightening their grip through another disciplined batting effort.
Mominul continued his impressive knock and added a fluent 75-run stand with Mushfiqur Rahim before falling agonisingly short of a century on 91.
Pakistan’s bowlers rarely looked threatening during the session.
Spinner Noman Ali leaked runs despite claiming a wicket and also struggled with his rhythm, bowling multiple no-balls during an erratic spell.
Even the second new ball failed to produce breakthroughs as Mushfiqur and Litton Das safely guided Bangladesh to stumps with the hosts firmly in command.
Rahim remained unbeaten on 48 at the close.
Bangladesh dominate all three sessions
Bangladesh scored at least 100 runs in every session after being asked to bat first, highlighting their remarkable recovery after the early collapse.
The home side’s calm response and disciplined batting exposed Pakistan’s inability to maintain pressure once the new ball lost its shine.
For Pakistan, the decision to field first is already facing scrutiny after a punishing day in the field.
Shan Masood’s team will now desperately need early wickets on Day 2 if they hope to drag themselves back into the contest.
Day 1 score summary
Bangladesh — First Innings:
- Najmul Hossain Shanto — 100+
- Mominul Haque — 91
- Mushfiqur Rahim — 48*
- Litton Das — unbeaten at stumps
Pakistan bowling:
- Shaheen Shah Afridi — early breakthrough
- Hasan Ali — early wicket
- Mohammad Abbas — key wicket of Shanto
- Noman Ali — struggled with line and no-balls
Play resumes on Saturday, May 9, at 4:00 am GMT.
