United News of Bangladesh

A magnificent, counter-attacking century from wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das rescued Bangladesh from a catastrophic middle-order collapse, pushing the hosts to 278 all out before Pakistan responded solidly to reach 21-0 at stumps on day one of the second Test in Sylhet. While Litton stood tall with a brilliant 126 off 159 balls, the opening day belonged to a highly disciplined Pakistan pace attack. Khurram Shahzad led the charge with a relentless 4-81, while veteran Mohammad Abbas (3-45) consistently triggered collapses just as partnerships threatened to salvage the innings. The afternoon session turned into a nightmare for the hosts as their steady pre-lunch position evaporated completely. Abbas broke a grinding 38-run stand by producing a beautiful delivery to dismiss captain Najmul Hossain Shanto (29), drawing a faint edge to Mohammad Rizwan. The wicket marked a personal milestone for Abbas, registering his 100th Test wicket outside Pakistan. Shahzad then took control from the other end. He trapped the veteran Mushfiqur Rahim lbw for 23 via an umpire's call review, before bouncing out Mehidy Hasan Miraz (4) just two overs later. Miraz’s reckless hook flew straight to deep fine leg, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 116-6 after losing three crucial wickets for just ten runs. Stepping up under immense pressure, Litton single-handedly altered the momentum of the match. He anchored vital lower-order partnerships, putting on 60 runs with Taijul Islam (16) and a crucial 64 runs for the 9th wicket with Shoriful Islam (12*). Litton accelerated effortlessly in the evening heat, smashing 16 boundaries and two sixes to bring up a majestic hundred before finally falling to Hasan Ali (2-49). Hasan wrapped up the innings at 278 by dismissing Nahid Rana for a duck four balls later. Faced with a tricky six-over period before the close of play, Pakistan's openers negotiated the new ball with absolute composure. Azan Awais (13*) and Abdullah Fazal (8*) defended sturdily against the home side's multi-pronged attack to finish the evening unscathed. Pakistan trails by 257 runs heading into Sunday morning, setting up an intriguing battle on day two.