Litton Smashes Stunning Century as Bangladesh Dominate Before Lunch!

Bangladesh enjoyed a commanding opening session on the second day of the Test match, powered by two remarkable centuries—one historic, the other scintillating. Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim entered the record books within minutes of the day’s start, bringing up a memorable hundred in what is his 100th Test appearance. His composure, patience and textbook stroke-play not only lifted the team’s spirits but also earned him entry into an elite global club of cricketers who have scored a century in their hundredth Test.

As the crowd rose to applaud Mushfiqur’s landmark moment, the momentum seemingly shifted into Litton Das’s hands. The elegant right-hander, known for his fluent shot-making, capitalised brilliantly on the solid platform. In the final moments before the interval, Litton reached his fifth Test century, showcasing maturity, controlled aggression and impeccable timing. His ability to rotate the strike, punish loose deliveries and maintain calm under pressure demonstrated how far his game has evolved in the longest format.

By the time the players walked off for lunch, Bangladesh stood firmly on 387 for 5, a total that reflects both resilience and ambition. Only one wicket fell in the session—Mushfiqur Rahim, whose edge to the slip cordon ended a near-perfect innings. Yet his departure hardly slowed the Tigers’ run flow, thanks to Litton’s innings gaining further authority.

At the other end, Mehidy Hasan Miraz continued to offer crucial support. Miraz, typically admired for his all-round strengths, batted with responsibility and intelligence, ensuring Bangladesh did not lose momentum. His partnership with Litton looked increasingly promising as the pair negotiated the opposition’s bowling with comfort, leaving the field with more runs appearing imminent after lunch.

The pitch, which has offered occasional movement early in the day, gradually looked friendlier for batting. However, the visiting bowlers struggled to maintain consistency, with several wayward deliveries allowing Bangladesh’s batters to dictate terms. Both centurions benefitted from patient build-up play, expertly picking off the loose balls and refusing risks when unnecessary.

Bangladesh’s dominating position at 387 for 5 sets them up for a potential first-innings total well beyond 450—perhaps even 500—if the middle and lower order can sustain the momentum. Such a score would place immense pressure on the visitors, particularly given the deteriorating nature of the pitch expected on days three and four.

The morning session will long be remembered for its significance: a century in a milestone Test, followed by a classy hundred from one of Bangladesh’s modern batting stars. As the Tigers headed into the lunch break, the home crowd buzzed with excitement, fully aware that they had witnessed one of Bangladesh cricket’s more memorable sessions in recent years.

Khaborwala/SJ