Day two of the 2nd Test between Bangladesh and Ireland at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur (Dhaka) was etched into cricketing history by veteran Mushfiqur Rahim. The hosts dominated the day, completing a massive first-innings total before leaving Ireland reeling under the pressure of the turning pitch.
The Mushfiqur Milestone
The morning belonged entirely to Mushfiqur Rahim. Resuming on his overnight score of 99, the wicketkeeper-batter calmly tucked the ball away to bring up a majestic century, becoming the first Bangladeshi and only the 11th batter in history to score a hundred in his 100th Test match.
Rahim, who finished with 106 runs off 214 balls, showcased the patience and composure that has defined his career, successfully anchoring the innings and joining the elite ranks of the Test game.
Litton Das Joins the Century Parade
Rahim was quickly joined by Litton Das, who accelerated rapidly after the milestone, bringing up a superb century of his own. Das finished with a magnificent 128 runs off 192 balls, exhibiting a powerful blend of defense and aggression.
- Partnership Power: The pair’s dominant performance was the key to building an unassailable lead. The two shared a vital 108-run stand for the fifth wicket, adding to two previous century partnerships in the innings.
- Final Total: Supported by a steady Mehidy Hasan Miraz (47), Bangladesh amassed a massive 476 runs in their first innings.
- Ireland’s Attack: Off-spinner Andy McBrine was the only consistent threat for the visitors, claiming six wickets, including three on Day 1. Debutant leg-spinner Gavin Hoey also claimed two wickets.
Ireland Struggles in Reply
Facing a huge total, Ireland’s second innings struggled immediately against the hosts’ relentless attack on the spinning Dhaka surface.
- Early Momentum: Openers Paul Stirling (27) and Andrew Balbirnie (21) provided a brief 41-run start.
- Collapse: However, the fragility of the Irish top order against spin was soon exposed. They collapsed violently, losing five wickets for just 53 runs.
- Status: By stumps on Day 2, Ireland was reeling at 98 for 5, trailing Bangladesh by a massive 378 runs.
Day 2 Summary
| Team | Score (Overs) | Status |
| Bangladesh | 476 all out (141.1 ov) | Finished 1st Innings |
| Ireland | 98/5 (38.0 ov) | Ireland trail by 378 runs |
Star Performers:
BAN: Mushfiqur Rahim (106), Litton Das (128). IRE: Andy McBrine (6/109).
For live scores and analysis of Day 3 as Bangladesh pushes for a clean sweep, visit the ultimate cricket destination: www.crickethighlights.online
Image Credits: Sport star