Bangladesh enjoyed a solid start on Day 2 of the Chittagong Test, but lost momentum just before the tea break as Mominul Haque threw away his wicket with a poor shot. Attempting an unnecessary slog sweep off left-arm spinner Wellington Masakadza, he failed to time the ball and was caught by Ben Curran at deep midwicket.
Before his dismissal, Mominul had stitched together a valuable 76-run partnership with Shadman Islam. He walked back after scoring 33 off 64 balls with two boundaries and a six.
At that point, Bangladesh had reached 194 for 2 in 54 overs. Shadman was still at the crease and was joined by Najmul Hossain Shanto.
Shadman’s Redemption in Style
Shadman Islam played one of the best innings of his Test career. He brought up his second Test century – and his first at home – with a towering six over midwicket. He scored 120 off 181 balls, laced with 16 boundaries and a six. His previous best was an unbeaten 115 against Zimbabwe in Harare back in 2021.
Unfortunately, just after Mominul’s dismissal, Shadman also departed. He was trapped LBW by Brian Bennett while attempting a flick shot. Although the ball appeared to be hitting leg stump, Shadman didn’t opt for a review and accepted the umpire’s decision.
Mushfiqur Takes Charge with a Six
In the wake of two quick wickets, experienced campaigner Mushfiqur Rahim eased some pressure with a confident six off Brian Bennett, pushing Bangladesh past the 200-run mark. At the tea interval, Bangladesh stood at 205 for 3 in 57 overs, with Mushfiqur unbeaten on 9 (off 9 balls) and Shanto on 2* (off 8 balls).
Anamul’s Comeback Knock
Returning to Test cricket after nearly three years, Anamul Haque showed composure early on. He contributed 39 runs off 80 balls before falling LBW to Blessing Muzarabani. At the time of his dismissal, Bangladesh had posted 118 runs in their opening stand – their first 100+ opening partnership since 2022.
The first session of the day belonged entirely to Bangladesh. They scored 105 runs without losing a wicket in 26 overs. Shadman was 66* and Anamul 38* at lunch, giving the hosts a commanding start.
Key Stats
- Shadman Islam: 120 (181 balls, 16×4, 1×6) – 2nd Test century
- Anamul Haque: 39 – career-best in Tests
- Shadman-Mominul stand: 76 runs
- Bangladesh at Tea (1st innings): 205/3 in 57 overs
Summary
Bangladesh began the day with dominance but faltered in the final hour before tea. With three wickets down, the responsibility now lies with Mushfiqur and captain Shanto to stabilize the innings and push for a commanding total.
