United News of Bangladesh

Najmul Hossain Shanto struck a commanding century to put Bangladesh in control before Mohammad Abbas struck just before tea to give Pakistan a much-needed breakthrough on the opening day of the first Test in Mirpur. Shanto’s 101, his ninth Test hundred and his first against Pakistan, anchored a 170-run partnership with Mominul Haque. The duo dominated a humid post-lunch session on a surface that offered little assistance to either pace or spin.  The breakthrough arrived in the 53rd over when Abbas trapped Shanto leg-before just in the next ball after the century. A good-length delivery nipped back to strike the front pad as Shanto played across the line. Although the on-field umpire initially turned down the appeal, Pakistan captain Shan Masood successfully reviewed the decision, with ball-tracking showing the delivery hitting off-stump. Shanto reached his milestone in style the previous ball, drilling a half-volley from Abbas through the covers for four. His 130-ball innings included 12 boundaries and two sixes, continuing a prolific run of form where he has consistently converted fifties into centuries.  While the session belonged to the hosts, the late wicket provided Pakistan with late momentum. Bangladesh now face a rebuilding phase in the final session, while Pakistan will likely target Mominul, who remains unbeaten having reached his 26th Test half-century. The wicket ended Shanto's first big Test score against Pakistan, an opponent against whom he had previously struggled to reach double figures. Bangladesh will look to Mominul to lead the charge as they aim for a big first-innings total.