Mirpur, May 11, 2026: Bangladesh remained in a commanding position against Pakistan as bad light brought an early close to play on day four of the first Test at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Monday.
The hosts ended the day at 152-3 in 50.3 overs, extending their overall lead to 179 runs after a rain-disrupted session that saw the entire second session washed out before play resumed briefly in the final phase of the day.
Resuming at 93-2, Bangladesh built steadily despite early breakthroughs by Pakistan’s pace attack. Mohammad Abbas struck first, removing Mahmudul Hasan Joy for 5, while Hasan Ali dismissed Shadman Islam for 10.
After the early setbacks, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque steadied the innings with a fluent century partnership, guiding Bangladesh past the 100-run mark and taking firm control of the match.
Mominul Haque went on to score 56 before being dismissed by Shaheen Shah Afridi, ending a 105-run stand that had put Bangladesh in a dominant position.
Shanto remained unbeaten on 58, while veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim was not out on 16 as Bangladesh closed the day with a strong advantage heading into the final stages of the Test.
Earlier in the match, Bangladesh posted 413 in their first innings, with significant contributions from Shanto (101), Mominul (91), and Mushfiqur Rahim (71). Pakistan’s bowling attack was led by Mohammad Abbas, who returned impressive figures of 5/92, while Shaheen Afridi claimed three wickets.
In response, Pakistan were bowled out for 386, falling 27 runs short on first innings despite strong performances from debutant Azan Awais (103), Abdullah Fazal (60), Salman Ali Agha (58), and Mohammad Rizwan (59).
Bangladesh’s spin attack proved decisive, with Mehidy Hasan Miraz starring with 5/102, supported by Taskin Ahmed and Taijul Islam with two wickets each.
With Bangladesh holding a substantial lead and only one day remaining, Pakistan face a challenging task to salvage the Test as conditions and momentum continue to favour the hosts.
