Bangladesh's Promising Start in Test Match Against West Indies

On the first day of the Test match against West Indies, Shadman Islam's impressive unbeaten 99 helped Bangladesh reach 213/3 at stumps. Despite early challenges from the West Indies bowlers, Shadman's steady performance, along with partnerships, set a promising tone for the innings. The day was marked by interruptions due to bad light and injuries, but Bangladesh aims to build on this strong start as they head into Day 2. The second Test is scheduled for November 5-9 in Sylhet.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 28, 2026, 20:27 IST

Bangladesh's Strong Start in Mirpur Test

On the opening day of the first Test against West Indies in the ICC World Test Championship held in Mirpur, Shadman Islam ended the day unbeaten on 99, helping Bangladesh reach 213/3. After opting to bat first, Shadman played a crucial role in stabilizing the innings, skillfully navigating the West Indies' disciplined bowling attack and aiding the team in recovering from early challenges. He will return on Day 2 just one run shy of his century, as Bangladesh aims to establish a solid first-innings score.

Early Challenges and Partnerships

The West Indies began strongly, utilizing seam movement and inconsistent bounce to challenge Bangladesh's top order. Jayden Seales struck first, dismissing Tanzid Hasan for seven after he edged a delivery to Justin Greaves at slip. Shadman, however, remained composed, rotating the strike and taking advantage of loose deliveries. Mominul Haque, who scored 28, attempted to be aggressive but was caught at mid-off while trying to step out against Jomel Warrican.

Shadman achieved his 10th Test half-century in the 35th over with a single off Seales. He continued to build runs steadily as Bangladesh sought to regain control. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto also showed intent but failed to convert his start into a significant score, falling to Warrican for 19 after a successful leg-before-wicket review.

Progress and Final Day Interruptions

Towhid Hridoy joined Shadman, helping to stabilize the innings. In his first Test since debuting in Harare in July, Hridoy played aggressively, finding boundaries and putting pressure back on the West Indies. The duo led Bangladesh to tea at 177/3, with an unbroken 67-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Shadman was on 79, while Hridoy had contributed 36. Unfortunately, Hridoy had to leave the field on a stretcher due to calf cramps in the intense heat, disrupting Bangladesh's momentum.

Shadman continued to bat with focus, inching closer to his century as the hosts aimed to solidify their position. However, play was halted for about 50 minutes due to bad light. After a brief resumption, play was again interrupted after just four overs, concluding the day's play. Bangladesh will resume on Day 2 at 213/3, with Shadman on 99, looking to convert their promising start into a commanding first-innings total. The second Test of the series is set to take place in Sylhet from November 5 to 9.