Shanto hits century before Abbas breaks Bangladesh dominance

Najmul Hossain Shanto’s commanding century anchored Bangladesh on the opening day in Mirpur, though a late strike by Mohammad Abbas handed Pakistan a vital breakthrough just before tea.

Shanto’s 101—his ninth Test hundred and first against Pakistan—formed the backbone of a 170-run stand with Mominul Haque. The pair navigated a humid afternoon session on a flat surface that offered the bowlers almost nothing.

Abbas finally broke the deadlock in the 53rd over, trapping Shanto leg-before with a delivery that nipped back and struck the front pad. While the on-field umpire turned down the initial appeal, a successful review by Pakistan captain Shan Masood showed the ball hitting off-stump.

The dismissal came just one ball after Shanto reached his milestone, having driven an Abbas half-volley through the covers for four. His 130-ball knock featured 12 boundaries and two sixes, underscoring a consistent ability to convert fifties into big scores.

Despite the breakthrough, the session largely belonged to the hosts. However, the late wicket shifted the momentum toward Pakistan heading into the final session. Bangladesh now need to rebuild around Mominul, who remains unbeaten on a 26th Test half-century, while Pakistan's attack will look to exploit the new partnership.

The wicket ended Shanto's longest stay at the crease against Pakistan, a side he had historically struggled against. Bangladesh's hopes for a massive first-innings total now rest with Mominul as the visitors search for further inroads.