MIRPUR — Veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim celebrated his monumental 100th Test appearance with a masterful, unbeaten century, steering Bangladesh to a commanding position on the second day of the one-off Test against Ireland at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.
Resuming the day on 34 not out with his team at 239 for 2, Mushfiqur displayed immense composure and skill to reach his tenth Test hundred, finishing the day on 125 not out as Bangladesh declared their first innings at a formidable 369 for 5. This gave the hosts a massive first-innings lead of 155 runs after they had bowled Ireland out for a paltry 214 on day one.
The 35-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman, becoming only the second Bangladeshi after Tamim Iqbal to reach the 100-Test milestone, was the bedrock of the innings. He shared a crucial 159-run partnership with Liton Das (50) for the fourth wicket, a stand that effectively batted Ireland out of the contest.
A Milestone Innings of Grit and Grace
The atmosphere was electric as Mushfiqur, needing 66 runs at the start of the day, inched closer to his landmark. He reached the century in 154 balls, a knock punctuated by 13 boundaries and a six. His celebration was one of pure, unbridled emotion, raising his bat to a roaring home crowd and soaking in a standing ovation from his teammates.
Reflecting on the achievement, an emotional Mushfiqur stated in the post-day press conference, "Playing 100 Tests for my country is a dream I never thought would come true. To score a century on such a day, in front of my home crowd, is an indescribable feeling. This innings is for every single person who has supported me throughout this long journey."
Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan was full of praise for his long-time teammate, saying, "We have grown up playing cricket together, and to see him achieve this is very special. His hunger for runs and his dedication to the team is an example for everyone."
Ireland's Spirited But Unrewarded Fight
While Mushfiqur was the star, Ireland's bowlers toiled hard on a pitch that offered variable bounce and turn. The visitors started the day brightly, with pacer Mark Adair providing an early breakthrough by removing nightwatchman Taijul Islam. However, they struggled to break the Mushfiqur-Liton axis for most of the first session.
Andy McBrine was the pick of the Irish bowlers, using his off-spin to good effect to claim two wickets, including that of Liton Das. The Irish fielding was generally sharp, but the sheer weight of Bangladesh's batting and the significance of the occasion proved too much to overcome.
Ireland's stand-in captain, Andrew Balbirnie, who led the side in the absence of the injured Andy Balbirnie, acknowledged the challenge. He remarked, "We knew it would be tough. Mushfiqur played a fantastic knock. We just have to show some fight now in our second innings."
Bangladesh's Bowling Prowess Sets Up Dominance
The foundation for Bangladesh's dominance was laid on the opening day by their bowlers. After losing the toss and being asked to field, the Bangladeshi spin trio of Taijul Islam, Shakib Al Hasan, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz exploited the conditions perfectly.
Ireland's innings never gained momentum, collapsing from a relatively stable 118 for 4 to 214 all out. The key contributors with the ball for Bangladesh were:
- Taijul Islam: The left-arm spinner was relentless, finishing with figures of 4 for 59.
- Shakib Al Hasan: The captain chipped in with 3 for 53, breaking key partnerships.
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz: Provided crucial support, taking 2 for 42 with his off-spin.
This disciplined bowling performance ensured that despite a fighting 46 from Harry Tector, Ireland posted a below-par total, handing the initiative firmly to the Bangladeshi batsmen.
The Road Ahead and Ireland's Uphill Battle
With a lead of 155 runs, Bangladesh declared their innings shortly after tea on day two, immediately putting Ireland back under pressure. By the close of play, Ireland had navigated 12 overs in their second innings, reaching 27 for 1, still trailing by 128 runs.
The wicket to fall was that of Murray Commins, caught behind off the bowling of Shoriful Islam. The task for Ireland now is one of sheer survival and resilience. They will need to bat for the majority of the remaining three days on a deteriorating pitch to save the match.
For Bangladesh, the equation is simple: continue to apply pressure with their spinners and push for a comprehensive victory. A win would not only be a fitting tribute to Mushfiqur Rahim's landmark Test but also consolidate their position in the World Test Championship standings.
Conclusion: A Day for the History Books
Day two in Mirpur will be remembered as Mushfiqur Rahim's day. His century was more than just runs on the board; it was a testament to his longevity, skill, and passion for the game. His innings, combined with the team's collective effort, has placed Bangladesh in an almost unassailable position.
As the sun set on the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium, the home fans were left with a perfect cricketing narrative: a stalwart celebrating a historic personal milestone by putting his nation on the brink of a significant Test victory. The challenge for Ireland is now monumental, while Bangladesh stands poised to complete a dominant performance.