Shadman stands tall on 99 as Tigers finish day one at 213/3

Shadman Islam came within a run of a deserved century as Bangladesh reached 213 for three at stumps on the opening day of the first Test against West Indies at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Wednesday.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Bangladesh made steady progress through a disciplined innings led by Shadman, who remained unbeaten on 99 off 219 balls, hitting 10 boundaries. His composure at the crease helped the hosts recover after losing three wickets and finish the day in a position to build a substantial first-innings total.

West Indies made an early breakthrough when Jayden Seales removed Tanzid Hasan Tamim for seven. Bangladesh then found stability through Shadman and Mominul Haque, who put together a useful partnership before left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican dismissed Mominul for 28 off 51 balls.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was the next to depart, trapped leg-before by Warrican for 19 after the visitors successfully reviewed the decision. At 110 for three, Bangladesh needed a partnership to prevent West Indies from taking control.

Shadman found an effective partner in Towhid Hridoy, and the pair responded with patience and determination. 

They kept the scoreboard moving without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks, frustrating the visiting bowlers through the afternoon and into the final session.

Hridoy contributed 42 before retiring hurt with discomfort in his leg, leaving questions over his availability to continue his innings. Shadman, meanwhile, remained composed as he moved towards three figures, finishing the day just short of his century.

Bangladesh reached 213 for three from 74 overs when bad light brought an early end to play. Having lost only one wicket across the final two sessions, the hosts will be encouraged by their recovery after the early setbacks.

For West Indies, Warrican was the most effective bowler, claiming two of Bangladesh's three wickets, while Seales provided the initial breakthrough.

The second day will begin with Shadman on the brink of a century and Litton Das at the other end on 10 not out. Bangladesh will aim to turn their steady start into a commanding total, while West Indies will seek early wickets to prevent the hosts from taking a firm grip on the match.

The opening Test runs until November 1, with the second match scheduled to begin in Sylhet on November 5.