Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto scored a century and Mominul Haque narrowly missed his own as Bangladesh ended the first day of the Mirpur Test against Pakistan strongly on May 8, 2026. After early setbacks, the hosts reached 301 for 4 in 85 overs at stumps, with Mushfiqur Rahim unbeaten on 48 and Liton Das on 8. Najmul’s 101 off 130 balls and Mominul’s 91 guided Bangladesh out of early trouble after losing two wickets within the first 25 balls.

Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi and Hasan Ali struck early, removing openers Mahmudul Hasan and Shadman Islam. Afridi also reached the milestone of 100 wickets in the World Test Championship. However, a 170-run third-wicket partnership between Najmul and Mominul turned the tide in Bangladesh’s favor. Najmul’s century featured 12 fours and 2 sixes before he was dismissed lbw by Mohammad Abbas.

Despite Mominul’s dismissal late in the day, Bangladesh’s strong batting display placed them in control heading into the second day, with the middle order well set to build on the solid foundation.