Bangladesh tightened their control in the first Test match against Pakistan after setting a challenging 268 run target at the Sher e Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. The hosts declared their second innings at 240 for 9, putting Pakistan under pressure heading into the final stage of the match.
Resuming from their overnight score of 152 for 3, Bangladesh added another 88 runs before deciding to declare. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto played a crucial knock of 87 runs, while experienced batter Mominul Haque contributed 56 runs. Pakistan bowlers Hasan Ali and Noman Ali picked up three wickets each to keep their side in the contest.
Earlier in the innings, Pakistan made a strong start with quick breakthroughs from Mohammad Abbas and Hasan Ali. However, Shanto and Mominul steadied the innings with a brilliant 105 run partnership that shifted momentum back toward Bangladesh. Their calm and disciplined batting helped the hosts build a solid lead.
Bangladesh had already gained confidence after posting 413 runs in their first innings. Shanto scored an impressive century, while Mushfiqur Rahim added a valuable 71 runs. Pakistan responded well with 386 runs in reply, thanks to centuries and half centuries from several batters.
Young opener Azan Awais impressed everyone with a brilliant 103 runs on debut, while Abdullah Fazal, Salman Ali Agha, and Mohammad Rizwan also made important contributions. Despite the fighting effort, Pakistan still conceded a narrow lead.
With a target of 268 runs on a difficult pitch, the final day promises an exciting finish. Pakistan’s batting lineup will need a strong performance to chase down the total, while Bangladesh’s bowlers will look to dominate and secure an important victory at home.
