Shanto Leads Bangladesh Charge Against Pakistan In Rain-Hit Test

Bangladesh national cricket team captain Najmul Hossain Shanto produced another composed innings to place his side firmly in control of the opening Test against Pakistan national cricket team in Dhaka.

At stumps on the rain-affected fourth day at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh had reached 152-3 in their second innings, holding an overall lead of 179 runs.

Shanto remained unbeaten on 58 alongside the experienced Mushfiqur Rahim, who was not out on 16 as Bangladesh strengthened their hopes of securing a memorable victory.

The hosts endured an early wobble after resuming on 7-0, losing openers Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shadman Islam cheaply to Pakistan’s disciplined seam attack.

However, Shanto once again steadied the innings with an important partnership alongside Mominul Haque. The pair added 105 runs for the third wicket after already sharing a major stand in the first innings.

Mominul continued his excellent form, scoring 56 and surpassing 5,000 Test runs in the process. His innings came to an end shortly after Shanto completed his own half-century, when he edged Shaheen Shah Afridi behind.

Persistent rain disrupted play for nearly three hours during the afternoon session, but Bangladesh still managed to tighten its grip on the match.

Earlier in the Test, Bangladesh posted 413 in their first innings thanks largely to centuries and half-centuries from Shanto, Mominul and Mushfiqur. Pakistan replied with 386, boosted by a century on debut from Azan.

Bangladesh batting coach Mohammad Ashraful expressed confidence that his team could force a result on the final day if the weather improves.

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, however, insisted his side remains confident of chasing whatever target is eventually set.