In a thrilling showdown between Bangladesh and Afghanistan in their solitary Test match, Bangladesh showcased their dominance on the opening day, amassing an impressive 362 runs for the loss of just five wickets. The star of the day was Najmul Hossain, whose exceptional century left Afghanistan reeling. Displaying incredible skill and determination, Najmul crafted a remarkable innings of 146 runs off a mere 175 deliveries, smashing 23 boundaries and sending two balls sailing over the ropes. His scintillating partnership of 212 runs for the second wicket with opener Mahmudullah (76) firmly established Bangladesh’s authority in the match. Mahmudullah’s contribution included nine powerful boundaries, adding to the team’s imposing total.
Throughout the day’s play, Bangladesh exhibited a relentless run rate of over 4.5 runs per over, ensuring a commanding position. As the closing moments approached, Mehidy Hasan (43*) and Mushfiqur Rahim (41*) stood undefeated, poised to continue the onslaught in the subsequent innings.
Winning the toss, Afghanistan’s captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, elected to field first, placing his faith in his team’s bowling prowess. Their debutant, Nijat Masood, made an immediate impact by claiming the wicket of Jahidul Hasan (01) with his very first delivery, caught by the agile wicketkeeper, Afsar Zazai. Masood’s sensational achievement made him the first Afghan bowler and the 22nd player globally to accomplish this feat, igniting hopes for an impressive showing by Afghanistan.
However, Bangladesh’s relentless pursuit of runs proved to be a daunting challenge for Afghanistan, as the hosts maintained their aggressive tempo, amassing runs at an impressive rate. Their electrifying performance not only propelled them to their third-highest score on the first day of a Test match but also showcased their determination to dominate the proceedings.
Najmul and Mahmudullah’s formidable partnership provided the backbone of Bangladesh’s innings. Najmul, in particular, exhibited his prowess with the bat, reaching his fourth Test half-century in just 58 deliveries. Mahmudullah, making his long-awaited return to Test cricket after a year, demonstrated composure and patience, taking 102 deliveries to reach his fifty.
Najmul’s aggressive approach continued unabated, culminating in a scorching century off only 118 balls, leaving the Afghan bowlers bewildered and unable to contain his onslaught. However, leg-spinner Rahmat Shah managed to break the partnership, dismissing Mahmudullah with a sensational catch by slip fielder Ibrahim Zadran, putting an end to their mammoth collaboration.
As the opening day drew to a close, the match poised tantalizingly, promising further excitement and fierce competition in the days to come. With Bangladesh firmly in control, Afghanistan faces an uphill battle to claw their way back into the game.