The first Test between Bangladesh and Irelandheld at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, witnessed a spectacular batting display on Day 3 as Bangladesh posted a mammoth total largely powered by twin centuries from Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Najmul Hossain Shanto. After Ireland set a competitive first innings score of 286, Bangladesh’s batters took command of the match, setting the tone for a dominant victory.

Dual centuries set foundation for Bangladesh’s dominance in 1^st Test

Joy was the star of Bangladesh’s innings, crafting an outstanding 171 runs off 286 balls with 14 fours and 4 sixes. Joy’s innings embodied patience and controlled aggression as he first consolidated after early wickets fell and then accelerated effectively to build Bangladesh’s commanding position. His career-best score laid a rock-solid foundation and suffocated Ireland’s bowling attack who struggled to contain his dominance.

Complementing Joy’s brilliance was Shanto, who scored a composed and determined century of 100 runs from 114 balls, including 14 fours. Shanto’s innings was crucial in pushing Bangladesh past the 550-run mark, especially after the departure of earlier well-set batters like Mominul Haque (82) and Litton Das (60). The partnership between Joy and Shanto was the cornerstone of Bangladesh’s monstrous innings and reflected their growing confidence and maturity in Test cricket.

Contributions from other key players including Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehidy Hasan Mirazand Hasan Murad added vital runs to the tally before Bangladesh declared at 587/8, a score which puts them firmly in control of the match.

Bangladesh marches towards a resounding victory over Ireland

Ireland’s first innings, though featuring spirited half-centuries from Paul Stirling (60) and debutant Cade Carmichael (59)fell short of establishing a commanding lead due to Bangladesh’s tight bowling and fielding efforts. Bangladesh’s bowlers, led by Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Hasan Mahmudapplied consistent pressure to restrict Ireland to 286.

Responding with such a mammoth total, Bangladesh then struck early in Ireland’s second innings on Day 3, reducing the visitors to 21 for 1 at a rapid rate. This early breakthrough intensified Bangladesh’s grip on the Test, with Ireland now trailing by 280 runs and facing a tough fight against the host’s potent bowling lineup.

The Sylhet pitch, initially a batter-friendly surface, has begun to offer assistance to Bangladesh’s spinners, increasing the difficulties for Ireland’s batters. Bangladesh’s strong batting display combined with disciplined bowling has shifted the momentum decisively in their favour.