MIRPUR, May 8 (V7N) — Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto led from the front with a masterful century, placing Bangladesh in a dominant position at tea on the opening day of the first Test against Pakistan. Despite his dismissal on the final ball before the break, the hosts reached a commanding 201-3 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
The Captain’s Knock

Shanto played a captain’s innings, hammering 101 off 130 balls. His knock was a blend of grit and aggression, featuring 12 boundaries and two towering sixes.

A Milestone Achievement: This was Shanto’s ninth Test century and his fourth in his last nine Test innings. He reached the triple-figure mark by driving Mohammad Abbas through extra-cover for a boundary.

The Breakthrough: Just as the session was concluding, Mohammad Abbas struck back, trapping Shanto leg-before (LBW) with the very next delivery after the century, providing Pakistan with a vital breakthrough.

Record-Breaking Recovery

The highlight of the day was the massive 170-run partnership for the third wicket between Shanto and Mominul Haque.

Rescuing the Hosts: The pair came together when Bangladesh was reeling at 31-2 in just 10.1 overs. They successfully neutralized a disciplined Pakistan pace attack that had initially exploited the morning moisture.

Mominul’s Stability: While Shanto provided the flair, Mominul played a steady anchor role, remaining unbeaten on 64 at the tea interval.

Pakistan’s Mixed Success

Earlier in the morning, Pakistan captain Shan Masood’s decision to bowl first seemed justified as Shaheen Shah Afridi and his fellow pacers moved the ball sharply.

Early Wickets: Mahmudul Hasan Joy (8) and Shadman Islam (13) both fell cheaply, edging deliveries to the keeper and first slip respectively.

Bowling Frustration: Following those early strikes, the Pakistan attack went wicketless for nearly two full sessions as Shanto and Mominul dictated the tempo on a surface that gradually became easier for batting.

As the final session begins, Mushfiqur Rahim (yet to score) will join Mominul Haque in the middle, looking to build on the solid foundation established by the captain.

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