Bangladesh tightened their grip on the Sylhet Test with a commanding batting display, reaching 338 for 1 at stumps on the second day after dismissing Ireland for 286 earlier in the morning.

Opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy led the charge with a career-best 169 not out, while Mominul Haque provided solid support with an unbeaten 80.

The pair added 170 runs for the second wicket after the early dismissal of Shadman Islam, who fell for 80 to left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys.

Mahmudul, who had earlier completed his second Test hundred, continued to bat with authority, surpassing his previous highest score of 137 made against South Africa in 2022.

His innings anchored Bangladesh’s dominance throughout the day.

Earlier in the morning, Taijul Islam and Hasan Mahmud wrapped up Ireland’s innings within 14 balls. Barry McCarthy added 10 more runs to his overnight 21 before falling for 31.

Bangladesh’s strong start was built on a 169-run opening stand between Shadman and Mahmudul — the team’s highest since 2015.

With the hosts already 52 runs ahead and nine wickets in hand, they hold complete control heading into day three.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz was Bangladesh’s best bowler in the first innings, taking 3 for 50, while debutant Hasan Murad, Hasan Mahmud, and Taijul Islam all contributed with two wickets apiece.

The second and final Test will be played in Dhaka, followed by a three-match T20I series between the two sides.