Shanto, Mominul Put Bangladesh in Control Despite Rain

Bangladesh edged closer to a dominant position against Pakistan on a day marred by torrential rain and poor light, ending with a 179-run lead and seven wickets in hand.

The day belonged to Najmul Hossain Shanto (58*) and Mominul Haque (56), whose 105-run stand marked their second century partnership of the Test. This rare feat—only the third time a Bangladeshi pair has achieved two century stands in a single match—stunted Pakistan’s early momentum after seamers Abbas and Hasan Ali removed the openers cheaply.

Despite overcast skies and variable bounce, Shanto and Mominul neutralized Pakistan’s attack. While Mominul played with characteristic caution, Shanto accelerated the scoring before the afternoon session was entirely washed out.

Upon resumption, both reached half-centuries with composure. Pakistan’s only breakthrough in the final session came via Shaheen Shah Afridi, who dismissed Mominul with a sharp delivery that caught the outside edge.

Spinner Noman Ali posed a late threat, nearly dismissing Mominul earlier and challenging Mushfiqur Rahim. However, Shanto and Mushfiqur held firm until bad light ended play, leaving Bangladesh firmly in the driver’s seat heading into the final stages.