Shanto's ton puts Tigers in command against Pakistan

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto struck a brilliant century as Bangladesh recovered from an early collapse to take control on the opening day of the first Test against Pakistan at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Friday.

After losing two quick wickets for 31 runs, Bangladesh fought back strongly through a commanding partnership between Shanto and experienced batter Mominul Haque.

At lunch, the hosts reached 101 for two, with Shanto unbeaten on 39 off 50 balls and Mominul on 31 from 57 deliveries. The pair added an unbroken 70-run stand in the opening session to steady the innings after Pakistan’s pacers made early breakthroughs.

Pakistan, who opted to bowl first after winning the toss, struck early through Shaheen Shah Afridi and Hasan Ali.

Mahmudul Hasan Joy became Shaheen’s landmark 100th wicket in the World Test Championship when he edged behind to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan for 8 runs. Shadman Islam then departed for 13 after being caught in the slips by Hasan Ali.

However, Shanto counterattacked confidently, mixing caution with aggression against both pace and spin. Mominul provided steady support as the duo gradually took control of the innings.

The partnership eventually grew into a 170-run stand, frustrating Pakistan bowlers on a pitch offering little assistance.

Shanto went on to complete his ninth Test century, and first against Pakistan, in style by driving Mohammad Abbas through the covers for a boundary.

The Bangladesh skipper scored 101 off 130 deliveries, hitting 12 fours and two sixes during his fluent knock.

Pakistan finally broke the stand immediately after the century milestone when Abbas trapped Shanto leg before in the 53rd over. Although the on-field umpire initially turned down the appeal, Pakistan captain Shan Masood successfully reviewed the decision, with ball-tracking confirming the ball would hit off-stump.

Mominul remained unbeaten after completing his 26th Test half-century as Bangladesh looked to build a strong first-innings total heading into the final session.