Shanto's century takes Bangladesh to 301-4 against Pakistan

Najmul Hossain Shanto's clinical ninth Test century dominated the opening day of the first Test in Mirpur, setting the foundation for Bangladesh to reach 301-4 at stumps against Pakistan today (8 May).

Shanto's 101 anchored a massive 170-run third-wicket stand with Mominul Haque, as the pair effectively neutralised Pakistan's pace-heavy attack throughout a humid afternoon.

The captain reached his milestone by drilling a Mohammad Abbas half-volley through the covers for four, marking his first century against this opponent.

His 130-ball innings, which included 12 boundaries and two sixes, eventually ended just before tea when Abbas trapped him leg-before. While the on-field umpire initially turned down the appeal, Pakistan successfully reviewed the decision to find the ball hitting off-stump.

Mominul Haque continued the momentum following Shanto's exit but fell in the "nervous nineties" for 91.

Attempting to parry a quicker delivery from spinner Noman Ali, Mominul was trapped on the back foot; a review confirmed the ball was hitting middle-and-leg.

Despite the late wickets, veteran Mushfiqur Rahim ensured the hosts maintained their advantage. Mushfiqur remained unbeaten on 48, showing his trademark composure to guide Bangladesh past the 300-run mark.

He will resume on the second day on Saturday morning alongside Litton Das, who is not out on 8 runs.

Pakistan's bowlers toiled for most of the day on a surface that offered little lateral movement or turn. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Abbas, Hasan Ali, and Noman Ali each took a single wicket, but the visitors struggled to make regular inroads against a disciplined top order.

With six wickets in hand and Mushfiqur's set nearing a half-century, Bangladesh will aim to bat Pakistan out of the game on day two.