Sylhet Test: Bangladesh Extends Lead to 161 at Lunch on Day Three

Bangladesh significantly extended their dominance over Ireland in the Sylhet Test, reaching 447 for four at lunch on Day Three, securing a substantial 161-run lead in the first innings.

The hosts had a productive but wicket-losing morning session, adding 111 runs while losing three key batsmen. The overnight centurion, Mahmudul Hasan Joy (who started the day on 169), could only add two runs before being dismissed for a career-best 171 (286 balls, 14 fours, 4 sixes), edging spinner Andy McBrine behind. Mominul Haque, who resumed on 80, also fell to McBrine shortly after, scoring 82.

Veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim made 23 before being deceived by the turn of left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto provided stability, registering his sixth Test fifty and batting aggressively to reach 50 not out at the break.

Liton Das was providing good support to Shanto, unbeaten on 19. Bangladesh's top three batsmen all passed fifty in the first innings only the second time this feat has been achieved in the country’s Test history.

The pitch is reportedly starting to show signs of turn, suggesting a tough challenge awaits Ireland in their second innings. Ireland was bowled out for 286 in their first innings.