Shanto, Mominul steady Bangladesh after early setbacks

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and experienced batter Mominul Haque continued their fine form as Bangladesh recovered from early setbacks to set a challenging target for Pakistan in the first Test at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.

The hosts resumed the day at 7 without loss but soon slipped to 23 for 2 within 12 overs. Shanto, who had struck a century in the first innings, then joined Mominul to stabilise the innings.

Shanto was batting on 34 while Mominul, who had scored 91 in the first innings, remained unbeaten on 37. Bangladesh reached 93 for 2 at Lunch, extending their lead to 120 runs.

Bangladesh lose two early wickets on Day 4 

Bangladesh had a difficult start on the fourth morning of the first Test against Pakistan at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium today, losing two early wickets in their second innings.

They resumed the day at 7 without loss but soon slipped to 23 for 2 in 12 overs, extending their overall lead to 50 runs.

Opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy was dismissed for 5 runs off 26 balls, trapped lbw by Mohammad Abbas after misjudging a delivery that nipped back in and struck him on the front pad. The decision stood despite a review, as it was given umpire’s call.

Soon after, Shadman Islam was dismissed for 10 runs when he edged a rising delivery from Hasan Ali. The ball took the shoulder of the bat and was safely taken by Saud Shakeel at gully, with the extra bounce on the pitch causing trouble for the batter.