Pakistan made a strong start against Bangladesh in the opening Test match after their pace attack struck early wickets on Day One in Dhaka. Fast bowlers Shaheen শাহ Afridi and Hasan Ali rattled the Bangladeshi batting lineup during the morning session, putting the hosts under pressure in the crucial World Test Championship clash.
Shaheen Afridi provided Pakistan with the breakthrough after removing Mahmudul Hasan Joy with a disciplined spell using swing and bounce effectively on the Mirpur surface. Hasan Ali then added another key wicket soon after, leaving Bangladesh struggling early in their first innings.
Pakistan’s bowlers maintained tight lines and lengths throughout the opening overs, restricting Bangladesh’s scoring opportunities and forcing mistakes from the batters. Mohammad Abbas also troubled the Bangladeshi top order with consistent movement outside off stump, although wickets initially came from the other end.
Despite the early setbacks, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto attempted to stabilize the innings with a composed knock alongside Mominul Haque. The pair built an important partnership after Pakistan’s fiery opening spell and gradually shifted momentum back toward the hosts during the second session.
The first Test marks the beginning of an important two-match series between Pakistan and Bangladesh as both teams look to strengthen their positions in the ICC World Test Championship standings. Pakistan entered the series with a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, including new Test debutants in the playing XI.
Cricket fans witnessed intense competition from the opening hour as Pakistan’s pace battery exploited the helpful conditions in Mirpur. The visitors will now aim to continue their dominance with the ball and prevent Bangladesh from building a strong first-innings total in the ongoing Test encounter.