Bangladesh outclass Ireland with emphatic innings triumph in 1st Test at Sylhet

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Bangladesh produced a clinical all-round performance to overwhelm Ireland by an innings and 47 runs in the opening Test at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. From disciplined bowling to superb batting, the hosts controlled every session to register one of their most convincing Test wins in recent years.

Ireland opted to bat first but failed to build momentum, folding for 286 despite a few promising starts. Captain Andy Balbirnie, opening the innings, departed for a duck – adding another unwanted mark to his name as he broke the record for most ducks in Test cricket for Ireland.

Bangladesh’s bowling unit delivered a collective effort, with every bowler contributing crucial breakthroughs. The Irish middle order attempted resistance, but regular wickets prevented any significant partnerships from forming.

In reply, Bangladesh amassed a massive total and declared with a 301-run first-innings lead, putting Ireland on the back foot immediately. The batting effort was headlined by opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy, who produced a career-best 171, showcasing impeccable temperament and timing.

Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto continued his exceptional form, crafting a fine century to keep Bangladesh firmly in command. Although the Irish bowling attack struggled, young Matthew Humphreys stood out with a memorable five-wicket haul, offering the visitors one of the few positives in an otherwise tough innings.

Ireland’s troubles deepened when skipper Balbirnie, who injured a finger while fielding, was unable to open the batting in the second innings. Coming in at No. 8, he showed spirit with a fighting 38, but the deficit proved too steep.

All-rounder Andy McBrine struck a gritty half-century, but Ireland remained far from threatening the hosts. The visitors occupied the crease for just 297 minutes, posting 254 runs before being bowled out.

Also READ: Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Najmul Hossain Shanto’s twin centuries propel Bangladesh to a mammoth score on Day 3 of the first Test against Ireland

Bangladesh’s spin attack took centre stage in the final innings. Debutant Hasan Murad emerged as the wrecker-in-chief, claiming 4 wickets in 14 overs with impressive control and maturity. His performance capped off a strong Test debut and highlighted Bangladesh’s growing depth in slow bowling options.

Ireland’s lack of application under pressure and inability to form long partnerships proved costly as Bangladesh wrapped up the match with ease.

“I think the way everyone performed in this match, we’re really happy. Especially the opening partnership, it was tremendous. I hope they continue in the next match as well,” said Bangladesh captain Shanto in the post-match presentation.

“It’s not like we wanted a spin-friendly wicket. We wanted a sporting wicket, and that’s what we got,” he added. “Even after three or four days, the wicket still looked pretty good.”

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