Fast bowler Nahid Rana delivered a stunning career-best performance of 5-40, powering Bangladesh to a historic 104-run victory over Pakistan in the first Test at Mirpur’s Shere Bangla National Stadium.
Chasing 268 for victory, Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled from a steady 68-2 to a disappointing 163 all out, losing seven wickets in a gripping final session on day five. This win marks Bangladesh’s third consecutive Test success against Pakistan, following their maiden series victory on Pakistani soil in 2024.
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto led by example, scoring a century and later adding 87 in the second innings, while Mominul Haque contributed 91 in the first innings to help the hosts post 413. Pakistan’s debutant opener Azan Awais, aged 21, hit a century as the visitors replied with 386, trailing by just 27 runs.
After rain interrupted play on days three and four, Bangladesh declared their second innings at 240-9 before lunch on the final day, setting Pakistan a target of 268. Shanto and Mominul (56) again starred. Despite a defiant 66 from Abdullah Fazal, Pakistan lacked support, with Taskin Ahmed and Taijul Islam each taking two wickets.
“Very happy,” said Shanto. “Proud of all the guys the way we played. We declared because we have a quality bowling attack. In these conditions, Rana, Taskin, and Taijul bowled really well, and that’s what I want from them.”
The two-Test series now moves to Sylhet, where the second and final Test begins on Saturday.
