Bangladesh strengthened their position against Pakistan on the second morning of the first Test in Mirpur, reaching 380 for 7 at lunch. Mushfiqur Rahim remained unbeaten on 71, playing a calm and important innings as the hosts moved closer to a 400-plus first-innings total.
Pakistan had hoped to use the second new ball to make early inroads, but Bangladesh began the day confidently. Litton Das set the tone by hitting Shaheen Afridi’s first three balls of the morning for boundaries, showing the hosts’ intent after a strong opening day.
However, Bangladesh did not take unnecessary risks for long. Litton and Mushfiqur focused on seeing off the new ball and building steadily. Their partnership crossed fifty, becoming Bangladesh’s third consecutive half-century stand of the innings.
Mohammad Abbas was Pakistan’s only successful bowler in the morning session. He removed Litton Das with a surprise bouncer, forcing a mistimed shot to mid-on where substitute fielder Amad Butt completed a good catch.
Abbas struck again when Mehidy Hasan Miraz, after hitting him for six, tried to attack through point but found Imam-ul-Haq. Taijul Islam then played a quick cameo against Hasan Ali, but he too fell to Abbas, edging a short ball to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan.
Despite losing three wickets in the session, Bangladesh still added 79 runs and remained in control. Their total also became their highest first-innings score in Tests against Pakistan.
Mushfiqur’s presence was the key difference. While others looked to score quickly, he played the anchor role and kept Bangladesh’s innings stable. With him still at the crease, Bangladesh will believe they can push beyond 400 and put Pakistan under serious pressure.
For Pakistan, Abbas’ four-wicket haul offered some relief, but they still face a long battle to pull the game back.
