Three Drops in Three Overs Leave Bangladesh Wilting Under the Sun

Bangladesh began their Test brilliantly in Sylhet, but a string of dropped catches soon turned early joy into frustration. Fast bowler Hasan Mahmud struck with just the fourth ball of the match, trapping Ireland captain Andy Balbirnie leg-before without scoring. Yet, within the next three overs, the fielders squandered three straightforward catching chances, allowing Ireland to settle in and seize control of the morning session.

By the end of the opening session on Tuesday at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Ireland had reached 94 for 1, thanks to a composed, unbroken 94-run stand between Paul Stirling and debutant Cade Carmichael.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto had chosen to bowl first on a pitch offering early movement. His plan worked instantly when Hasan’s sharp delivery hit Balbirnie’s pad plumb in front. The Irish captain reviewed the decision, but with a clear gap between bat and pad, the on-field umpire’s call stood.

However, the momentum quickly faded. In the fourth over, Shadman Islam spilled a simple chance at second slip, giving Stirling a reprieve on just 8 runs. The very next over saw Taijul Islam fail to hold onto an easy catch at short mid-wicket, letting Carmichael survive on 10. Then, in the sixth over, Mehidy Hasan Miraz dropped another at third slip—Stirling again the lucky man, still on 10.

Having been gifted three lives, the Irish pair batted with increasing confidence. Stirling, using his experience, punished loose deliveries, while Carmichael—playing with admirable composure on debut—rotated the strike effectively. Bangladesh introduced spin as early as the ninth over, but neither Mehidy Hasan Miraz nor debutant Hasan Murad could break through.

Just before lunch, Carmichael edged Taijul between the wicketkeeper and first slip, narrowly escaping again, and survived another scare in the next over attempting a reverse sweep.

After that, the Irish duo gave Bangladesh no further chances. Their patient and measured batting not only blunted the new ball but also built a solid platform for a big total.

What began as a perfect morning for Bangladesh soon turned into a test of endurance — both under the scorching Sylhet sun and under pressure from missed opportunities.

Khaborwala/SJ