Litton Das century lifts Bangladesh to 278 before Pakistan bowlers strike back

SYLHET: Litton Das struck a fighting century as Bangladesh were bowled out for 278 on the opening day of the second Test against Pakistan in Sylhet on Saturday, with Khurram Shahzad leading the visitors’ bowling effort with four wickets.

After Bangladesh opted to bat first, Pakistan’s pace attack kept the hosts under pressure for most of the day despite Litton’s counterattacking innings of 126, which held the innings together after regular wickets at the other end.

Litton mixed caution with aggression during his stay at the crease and shared important partnerships in the middle order to help Bangladesh recover from difficult phases during the innings.

Pakistan’s bowlers, however, maintained disciplined lines throughout the day, preventing Bangladesh from building sustained momentum.

Khurram Shahzad was the pick of the attack with 4 for 67, consistently troubling the batters with movement and bounce. Mohammad Abbas provided control and breakthroughs with three wickets, while Hasan Ali claimed two.

Off-spinner Sajid Khan chipped in with one wicket as Pakistan wrapped up the innings before the close of play.

Bangladesh entered the match with confidence after taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series and were aiming to seal the contest with another strong performance at home.

Pakistan, meanwhile, needed an improved display after struggling in the opening Test and will look to build a substantial first-innings response when they begin batting.